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

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