These terrestrial clump-forming orchids have a slender rhizome and lacks pseudobulbs. It has pointed oblong mid-green leaves and the upright white, pink, red or green slipper-shaped  flowers appear above the foliage on a slender stem during summer. 

Hardiness zones 3 to 9

Cypripedium species is naturally found from India to China and North America with some species found in the mountains of south-east Asia growing in cold regions and often under snow. Under these conditions the plant emerges from the melting snow but in its natural enviroment these plants are becoming rare due to habitat destruction and poachers.

They prefers a semi-shaded protected position in a cool-temperate climate and grows in a variety of well drained organic rich gritty soils with variable pH, and some species requiring a sub level of wet boggy soil. These plants are frost tolerant but drought tender and dislike drying wind.

The Lady Slipper Orchids are beautiful flowering plants that are used as an indoor or shade-house potted specimen and are planted in temperate gardens along borders or in shaded woodland areas. They are also used for display and are commonly grown by collectors who exhibit them in shows. The flowers are also used in floral arrangements. ID 687

Cypripedium (kip-ree-PEE-dee-um) species

Orchidaceae (or-kid-AY-see-ee)
Orchid Family