Pink lady slipper (Cypripedium acaule)

Pink lady slipper

Also known as: Stemless lady's-slipper

The roots of pink lady slipper (Cypripedium acaule) have a symbiotic relationship with the fungus known as 'Rhizoctonia'. This fungus is responsible for providing the plant with the nutrients required for seed development.

Scientific classification

Species

Pink lady slipper (Cypripedium acaule)

Instantly identify plants with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant ID, gaining quick insights on disease prevention, treatment, toxicity, care, uses, and symbolism, etc.

Download the App for Free

Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Spring, Summer

Bloom Time

Summer

Harvest Time

15 cm to 61 cm

Plant Height

23 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

4 mm to 1.7 cm

Flower Size

Brown, Copper

Fruit Color

Pink, Green

Flower Color

Green

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

0 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring, Summer

Growth Season

Images of Pink lady slipper

Culture

Symbolism

Pure affection mountain: you are aspiring,

Get quick plant knowledge with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant identification and learn about its name, symbolism, interesting facts, uses, and more.

Download the App for Free

Toxicity

Pink lady slipper causes an itchy red rash if touched due to its stiff glandular hairs. Ingesting it can obstruct breathing and swallowing. The chemical responsible is unknown. Wear gloves and keep it away from small children and others who need supervision for safety.

Identify toxic plants in your garden

Find out what’s toxic and what’s safe for humans and pets.

Download the App for Free

Quickly Identify Pink lady slipper

Solitary, pink pouch-like blossom on leafless stalk (6-15 inches/15-38 cm tall).

Distinctive green, leaf blades at stalk base with twisted lateral petals (late spring blooms).

Unique hollow pink pouch flower with heavy veining and greenish-brown sepals (April-June).

Fruit is upward-facing, elongated capsule turning brown, bursting with minuscule seeds (August).

Opposite basal leaves (3-9 inches/7.5-23 cm long, 1-3 inches/2.5-7.5 cm wide) with prominent parallel veins.

Identify plants with a snap

Instantly identify plants with AI: Snap a photo, and get accurate results within seconds.

Download the App for Free

Care Guide for Pink lady slipper

Every week

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

0 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Orchid Potting Mix

Soil Type

Water: Pink lady slipper thrives in temperate forests with consistent moisture and organic-rich soil. It requires moderate humidity and a weekly watering schedule. As an outdoor plant in shaded areas, mulching aids in moisture retention, replicating its natural habitat's conditions.

Fertilize: Pink lady slipper thrives with a balanced fertilizer high in phosphorus for flowering, applied every 4-6 weeks during growth at a quarter strength. Over-fertilization harms pink lady slipper and soil fungi. Reduce feeding in fall and halt in winter, using diluted solutions to prevent root burn.

Pruning: Pink lady slipper features unique pink, slipper-shaped flowers. Prune dead or damaged foliage in early to late spring to enhance growth. Gentle handling is crucial due to delicate roots. Careful pruning promotes blooms and prevents disease. Always use sanitized tools for plant health.

Propagation: Pink lady slipper is a terrestrial orchid known for its unique flowers. Propagation occurs mainly through seed sowing, necessitating a symbiotic link with mycorrhizal fungi for germination. In vitro methods can aid professionals, while novice gardeners should source adult plants due to propagation complexities.

Get tips and tricks for your plants.

Keep your plants happy and healthy with our guide to watering, lighting, feeding and more.

Download the App for Free

Images of Pink lady slipper

Culture

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Pink lady slipper

Care Guide for Pink lady slipper

PEOPLE ALSO ASK

Common Pests & Diseases