Species Fairy Slipper
purple flowers with yellow stamens, green leaves and red stems

Fairy Slipper

Calypso bulbosa var. americana

The Fairy Slipper (Calypso bulbosa var. americana) is a species of orchid native to North America. This small plant has a mound of glossy, dark green leaves with a single stemless flowering shoot emerging from the center. It produces tightly budded, purplish-pink flowers that look like small slippers with delicate white fringe. The blooms have an enchanting scent and the delicate blooms last a few weeks in summer. This beautiful little wildflower is best grown in moist, shady woodlands or sheltered gardens and is a delight to the eyes.

Watering:

Minimal

Propagation:

Division,Seed Propagation,Cutting,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

Sun:

full sun,part shade

Growth Rate:

Low

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Fairy Slipper (Calypso bulbosa var. americana) requires consistently moist soil; however, its soil should never be soggy or wet. Water regularly, about once every week or every 5 to 7 days, during the growing season in spring and summer. If the soil feels dry at the top, water thoroughly until the water runs out of the bottom of the pot. During the winter season, reduce watering to about once every 10 to 14 days. As a general rule of thumb, never allow the soil to become completely dry before providing your Fairy Slipper with a drink of water.

sunlight

Fairy Slipper (Calypso bulbosa var. americana) plants require approximately 3-4 hours of direct sunlight each day. Full morning or late afternoon sun is ideal; however, some shade in the hottest part of the day is needed to prevent scorching the plant. Morning sun is more beneficial for growth and flowering, while afternoon sun can increase the vigor of the foliage. These plants can also be grown in full shade, though flowering and growth are both reduced.

pruning

Fairy Slipper should be pruned in late fall or early spring when the plant is not actively growing. Cut any old flower stems back to the base of the plant and remove any dead leaves or foliage. This will help the plant increase its flowering potential as it will put more energy into growing new stems and flowers. Pruning should be light and should keep the overall shape of the plant intact.