One of the most attractive terrestrial orchids is the Lady’s Slipper Orchid. The botanical name is Paphiopedilum hirsutissimum and belongs to Orchidaceae family and Cypripedioideae sub family. Other common names are camel’s foot, squirrel foot, steeple cap, Venus’ shoes, and whippoorwill shoe.
Paphos is a city on the island of Cyprus in Greece and Pedilon means a slipper. The pouch (lip) is the most attractive with the other petals arranged around it.
The shoots grow from a rhizome with green leaves. Leaves are hairy, ovate to elliptic and folded along the length.
A raceme which comes out between the leaves bears the flowers. It can bear up to 12 flowers on a raceme. Insects are attracted into the pouch and they pollinate the flowers.
Lady’s Slipper Orchid is native to Canada, North America, Europe, and Asia. It is the state flower of Minnesota State.
Uses:
Lady’s Slipper Orchid was used in the Far East in traditional medicine.
Propagation:
It is very easy to cultivate and there are around 58 species available to grow and enjoy in the garden. Mist the Lady’s Slipper Orchid plant every day.
