Cypripedium formosanum (Formosan Ladys Slipper Orchid)
Cypripedium formosanum (Formosan Lady’s Slipper Orchid) is a small, hardy orchid boasting two broad fan-like, pleated leaves that grow opposed to each other at the center of a smooth single stem. The slender, glabrous stem produces a white flower, 2.5 in. across (6-7 cm), with broad petals and an inflated, puffy pouch. The slipper-shaped flowers are spotted and mottled with light to dark pink.
Cypripedium formosanum (Formosan Lady's Slipper Orchid) is a small, hardy orchid boasting two broad fan-like, pleated leaves that grow opposed to each other at the center of a smooth single stem. The slender, glabrous stem produces a white flower, 2.5 in. across (6-7 cm), with broad petals and an inflated, puffy pouch. The slipper-shaped flowers are spotted and mottled with light to dark pink. Blooming from mid-spring to early summer (depending on geographic locations), the plant spreads by underground runners to form nice colonies where happy. Well-established clumps can have more than 100 individual stems, each with a bloom.
- Recipient of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society.
- Grows up to 4-6 in. tall (10-15 cm).
- Thrives in part shade in moist, fertile, humus-rich, alkaline, well-drained soils. Requires 2 to 3 hours of direct early morning or late afternoon sun and be in the dappled shade the remainder of the day. Provide an annual winter mulch of leaf mold.
- Excellent choice for borders, city gardens, cottage gardens, and containers.
- Allow the foliage to die down naturally.
- Propagate by division in early or mid-spring and replant immediately. Some soil from the root ball, which contains beneficial fungi, should be planted with each division.
- No serious pest or disease issues. Keep an eye out for slugs and gray molds.
- Native to Taiwan.
Requirements
Hardiness | 6 – 9 |
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Plant Type | Orchids, Perennials |
Plant Family | Cypripedium – Laddy Slippers |
Exposure | Partial Sun |
Season of Interest | Spring (Mid,Late)Summer (Early) |
Height | 4" – 6" (10cm – 15cm) |
Water Needs | Average |
Maintenance | Low |
Soil Type | Clay, Loam, Sand |
Soil pH | Alkaline, Neutral |
Soil Drainage | Moist but Well-Drained |
Characteristics | Plant of Merit, Showy |
Garden Uses | Beds and Borders, Patio and Containers, Underplanting Roses and Shrubs |
Garden Styles | City and Courtyard, Informal and Cottage |