Overview
Cypripedium candidum is a orchid in the genus Cypripedium, part of the Orchid family. Cypripedium candidum grows best in partial shade, and tolerates most soils and alkaline pH. It is native to Manitoba, Ontario and Saskatchewan.
About
Cypripedium candidum is an orchid known by the common name white lady's slipper and notable for its slipper-like flower. It naturally occurs in alkaline wetlands and fen habitats. Plants perform where soil remains moist and with partial shade. Expect flowering from May to July.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Cypripedium candidum
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 candidum is an orchid native to Manitoba, Ontario and Saskatchewan where it grows in calcareous, alkaline wetlands and fens. It is a specialist of lime-rich, moisture-retentive ground and is best sited where natural seepage keeps the soil damp through the growing season. Choose a sheltered spot with partial shade and consistently moist, alkaline soil; avoid dry or strongly acidic composts. Where garden soil is neutral or acidic, recreate fen conditions by using a lime-rich substrate and maintaining surface moisture rather than allowing the crown to sit in stagnant water. Light dappled shade from deciduous trees or a north-facing edge will give protection from scorch while allowing spring light to reach emerging shoots. In the UK this species is appropriate for an alkaline bog or fen planting, the moist margin of a garden wetland, or a specialist rockery constructed with calcareous material. Flowers appear from May to July, the period to check for the distinctive slipper blooms and to assess moisture and light balance for the following season.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Cypripedium
- Sunlight
- partial shade
- Soil type
- calcareous, alkaline wetlands, fens
- Soil pH
- alkaline
- Soil moisture
- moist
Plant details
Cypripedium candidum size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Orchid
- Native to
- Manitoba, Ontario, Saskatchewan
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Cypripedium candidum
- Cultivation
- Requires moist, calcareous soils; avoid disturbance; sensitive to habitat changes
- Propagation
- seed, division
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Cypripedium candidum?
Requires moist, calcareous soils; avoid disturbance; sensitive to habitat changes.
Where is the best place to plant Cypripedium candidum?
Cypripedium candidum prefers partial shade.
What soil does Cypripedium candidum need?
Cypripedium candidum is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including calcareous, alkaline wetlands and fens. It prefers alkaline soil. Aim for soil that stays moist.
How do I propagate Cypripedium candidum?
Seed, division.
