Overview
Cypripedium pubescens is a orchid in the genus Cypripedium, part of the Orchid family. Cypripedium pubescens grows best in partial shade, and tolerates most soils and acidic to neutral pH. It is native to North America.
About
Cypripedium pubescens, the Yellow Lady's Slipper, is a lady's slipper orchid native to North America. It flowers from May to July and favours partial shade. Give it rich, well‑drained loamy soil that remains moist and leans acidic to neutral in pH, sited in a sheltered north or east-facing position.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Cypripedium parviflorum
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 pubescens is a member of the lady's slipper orchids and originates from North America. In a UK context it performs best out of strong sun in a sheltered spot; choose a north- or east-facing position where it will be shaded for much of the day and sheltered from drying winds. Soil is critical: use rich, well-drained loamy material and keep it consistently moist without creating standing water. Aim for an acidic to neutral pH and avoid exposed, dry locations; a site that retains moisture through the growing season suits the species. Partial shade is essential to prevent leaf scorch and to maintain cool, damp root conditions. Plant within a sheltered mixed border or the shadier edge of a garden bed where the aspect and moisture regime match these requirements. Flowers appear between May and July, so plan neighbouring plants that will not overwhelm the spot during that window. Protect crowns from severe winter exposure by ensuring the chosen site is not wind-exposed and that soil remains humus-rich and evenly moist.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Cypripedium
- Sunlight
- partial shade
- Soil type
- rich, well-drained, loamy
- Soil pH
- acidic to neutral
- Soil moisture
- moist
- Aspect
- north, east
- Exposure
- sheltered
Plant details
Cypripedium pubescens size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Orchid
- Native to
- North America
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Cypripedium pubescens
- Propagation
- seed, division
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Cypripedium pubescens?
Cypripedium pubescens prefers partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Cypripedium pubescens need?
Cypripedium pubescens is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including rich, well-drained and loamy. It prefers acidic to neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist.
How do I propagate Cypripedium pubescens?
Seed, division.
