Cypripedium arietinum (ram's-head slipper orchid) — Orchid

Overview

Cypripedium arietinum is a orchid in the genus Cypripedium, part of the Orchid family. Cypripedium arietinum grows best in partial shade and shade, and tolerates most soils and acidic pH. It is native to Manitoba, Nova Scotia, Ontario, Quebec and Saskatchewan.

About the genus

Cypripedium is a genus of 58 species and nothospecies of hardy orchids; it is one of five genera that together compose the subfamily of lady's slipper orchids (Cypripedioideae). They are widespread across much of the Northern Hemisphere, including most of Europe and Africa (Algeria), Russia, China, Central Asia, Canada the United States, Mexico, and Central America.

Wikipedia contributors, "Cypripedium", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Cypripedium

In the garden

Cypripedium arietinum is a terrestrial Orchid known in cultivation as the ram's-head slipper orchid and is native to Manitoba, Nova Scotia, Ontario, Quebec and Saskatchewan. It sits in the genus Cypripedium and produces its flowers between May and July. Use its native preferences to guide siting rather than relying on open sun. Choose a sheltered location on a north- or east-facing aspect in partial shade to shade and avoid exposed, wind-blasted sites. Plant into an acidic, sandy, well-drained medium that remains consistently moist rather than waterlogged; mixing coarse sand or grit with ericaceous leaf mould will help achieve the required drainage and acidity while retaining moisture at the root zone. The plant’s needs are specific: partial shade, north/east aspect, and a moist but freely draining, sandy acidic soil. In a UK garden it is best sited where those conditions can be provided year-round, for example under the canopy of larger shrubs or in a shaded bed kept free of competitive ground cover. Expect flowers to appear in the late spring to early summer window of May to July, and position the plant so its flowering period can be observed at close range.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Cypripedium

Sunlight: partial shade, shade
Soil type: sandy, well-drained, acidic
Soil pH: acidic
Soil moisture: moist
Aspect: north, east
Exposure: sheltered

Plant details

Cypripedium arietinum size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: Orchid
Native to: Manitoba, Nova Scotia, Ontario, Quebec, Saskatchewan

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Cypripedium arietinum

Cultivation: Requires cool, shaded conditions with moist, well-drained acidic soil; avoid disturbance of roots
Propagation: seed, division

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Cypripedium arietinum?

Requires cool, shaded conditions with moist, well-drained acidic soil; avoid disturbance of roots.

Where is the best place to plant Cypripedium arietinum?

Cypripedium arietinum prefers partial shade and shade. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Cypripedium arietinum need?

Cypripedium arietinum is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including sandy, well-drained and acidic. It prefers acidic soil. Aim for soil that stays moist.