Overview
Cypripedium reginae is a orchid in the genus Cypripedium, part of the Orchid family. Cypripedium reginae grows best in partial shade, and tolerates most soils and acidic to neutral pH. It is native to Eastern N America.
About
Cypripedium reginae is a terrestrial orchid in the genus Cypripedium, notable for its status as a lady’s-slipper orchid and its seasonal bloom. It is native to eastern North America and, in the UK, flowers from May to July. The plant prefers partial shade and humus-rich, well-drained soil that remains reliably moist with an acidic to neutral pH. Its tissues can provoke a skin allergic reaction, so wear gloves and protective equipment when handling.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Cypripedium reginae
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 reginae is a terrestrial orchid from eastern North America (genus Cypripedium) that flowers in the UK between May and July. It suits sites where a late-spring to mid-summer display under shelter is required, rather than exposed, sunny borders. Plant in partial shade on rich, humus-rich, well-drained soil that stays moist; the species prefers acidic to neutral conditions. Avoid dry, free-draining lean soils and positions in full sun. Aim to keep root-run cool and damp rather than waterlogged: consistent moisture combined with good drainage helps roots access both air and water. Mulching with well-rotted leaf material or similar humus will help retain soil moisture and feed the root zone without altering the soil pH dramatically. In a UK garden it performs best in sheltered, shaded or dappled-light positions such as the edge of a woodland bed or a moist border where conditions remain cool and humid. Take care when lifting or dividing plants: Cypripedium reginae is a skin allergen, so wear gloves and other protective equipment, and expect blooms from May to July.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Cypripedium
- Sunlight
- partial shade
- Soil type
- rich, humus-rich, well-drained
- Soil pH
- acidic to neutral
- Soil moisture
- moist
Plant details
Cypripedium reginae size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Orchid
- Native to
- Eastern N America
- Toxicity
- Skin allergen. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Cypripedium reginae
- Cultivation
- Requires cool, moist conditions with partial shade; avoid direct hot sun; mulch to retain moisture; protect from drying winds
- Propagation
- Division, seed (requires symbiotic fungi)
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Cypripedium reginae?
Requires cool, moist conditions with partial shade; avoid direct hot sun; mulch to retain moisture; protect from drying winds.
Where is the best place to plant Cypripedium reginae?
Cypripedium reginae prefers partial shade.
What soil does Cypripedium reginae need?
Cypripedium reginae is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including rich, humus-rich and well-drained. It prefers acidic to neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist.
How do I propagate Cypripedium reginae?
Division, seed (requires symbiotic fungi).
Is Cypripedium reginae toxic?
Skin allergen. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling.
