Cypripedium reginae

Cypripedium reginae, also known as the Royal Lady's Slipper, is part of a group of terrestrial orchids called Venus's Slippers due to the 'slipper' shape of their lip. This magnificent species, very hardy, is the largest and most spectacular orchid in North America. Where it thrives, this perennial plant slowly spreads in clumps, from which emerge in early summer a few large white flowers displaying a beautiful pale pink to magenta lip. Like many orchids, it thrives when its habitat is meticulously recreated. 

The Royal Lady's Slipper is native to the entire Eastern region of North America. It primarily grows in wet habitats in cool temperate regions. This species favours bogs, marshes, and lake shores, but also adapts well to dappled shade in deciduous or coniferous forests. A limestone substrate is ideal. Hardy down to -30 °C, this Cypripedium tolerates drought and dense shade very poorly. It appreciates cold winters and not too hot summers.

Cypripedium is a deciduous herbaceous perennial, with vegetation emerging from the ground relatively late in spring (usually May) and disappearing in winter. It forms a clump of stems with large bright green leaves, oval to elliptical, with very pronounced parallel veins.  In nature, it can reach up to 1m (3ft) in height. In our climates, it will reach 50 to 70cm (20 to 28in) in height. Flowering generally occurs between late May and early July, it is sometimes absent in certain years, and occurs when the plant is at least 4 or 5 years old. The strong and robust flower stem develops directly from a very large cylindrical rhizome. It is provided with leaves up to the top. Each stem produces 1 or 2 flowers, rarely 3 or 4. The flowers, 10cm (4in) in diameter, have the characteristic shape of Cypripedium flowers, composed of white sepals and petals dominating an imposing lip in "slipper" shape, very swollen, pale pink to magenta in colour depending on the plants. The entire vegetation is covered with a fine down that can be allergenic and irritating to the skin. These urticating hairs host a fungus. During winter, the foliage disappears and the plant persists in the form of a rhizome. 

Cypripedium reginae is demanding in terms of its habitat, but if the conditions are met, it will be a real attraction for the cool areas of the garden and the gardener's pride who managed to acclimatize it. It should be planted in light shade or at the edge of the shade, by the water's edge, in a carefully prepared substrate. It pairs well with ferns, Cypripedium, Trillium, hostas, Rodgersias. 

Our Cypripediums are sold in 11cm (4in) pots so they can flower as early as the first year of planting.

When you receive your orchids, handle them with care: these plants produce few roots and are delicate!