Cypripedium guttatum, the spotted lady's slipper or Alaskan lady's slipper, is a species of orchid found on three continents. Each stem has about two clasping leaves that alternate. The plant has a height of 12 centimeters to 35 centimeters. The magenta and white colored labellum is pitcher shaped.
Spotted lady's slipper generally shows strong resistance to disease and is affected by relatively few insect pests. Its care is regarded as difficult because it needs a high-humidity yet well-ventilated environment with minimal harmful pathogens. Too much watering can result in root rot. While anyone can grow Spotted lady's slipper, keeping it healthy and getting it to flower again requires more cultivation experience.
How to keep Cypripedium Guttatum.
Light
Spotted lady's slipper grows naturally in habitats like forest understories or rocky sites, where it gets natural shade. It prefers partial sun but can tolerate full sun or full shade, showing its adaptable and hardy nature.
Water
The spotted lady's slipper thrives in cool temperate regions and requires consistently moist soil to stay healthy. To maintain its well-being, it's important to water it weekly. While it can handle short periods of dryness, it cannot withstand drought conditions. As an outdoor perennial, the spotted lady's slipper benefits from natural rainfall, which supports its growth during crucial developmental stages.
Temperature
Spotted lady's slipper is adapted to native growth environments with temperatures from 32 to 90°F (0 to 32℃). It is heat-tolerant and cold-hardy, but adjustments may be necessary for extreme cold or hot spells. Care should be taken to replicate these conditions for optimal growth.
Fertilizer
For Spotted lady's slipper, the primary time to fertilize is in early spring as the flowers are forming. The appropriate fertilizer promotes improved blooms and helps Spotted lady's slipper produce attractive flowers. Applying fertilizer in early spring ensures good flowers throughout the season and supplies energy for dormant growth phases.
Pruning
The spotted lady's slipper benefits from selective pruning during the early to late spring. By trimming away spent blooms and dead foliage, you can promote better growth and flowering. This also helps ensure optimal air circulation and sunlight exposure. To minimize stress and reduce the risk of disease, use clean, sharp tools. With proper care, you'll enjoy vibrant displays every season.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Herb
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Cypripedium
- Family
- Orchidaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 2-8
- Mature Height
- 25 cm
- Mature Spread
- 20 cm to 30 cm
- Leaf Color
- Green, Dark Green
- Leaf Type
- Deciduous
- Flower Color
- White, Red, Purple
- Flower Size
- 6.35 cm
- Bloom Time
- Late spring, Early summer
- Planting Time
- Spring
- Harvest Time
- Mid summer, Late summer
- Native Area
- Russia, India, Kazakhstan, Myanmar, Mongolia, Koppen, Bhutan, South Korea, China
Other names.
