The Lady’s Slipper orchid is a fascinating terrestrial orchid (meaning it grows in the ground rather than on trees) that you can actually find growing wild in parts of Europe and North America. However, the name “Lady’s Slipper” can be a bit of a head-scratcher for gardeners because it’s actually a catch-all term for two very different types of orchids: *Paphiopedilum* and *Cypripedium*.
Spotting the Differences
Even though they share a nickname, these two orchids couldn’t be more different. The biggest giveaway is where they come from. *Paphiopedilum* orchids are tropical beauties, while *Cypripedium* orchids are hardy souls native to the Northern Hemisphere.
What’s in a Name?
To keep things straight, many plant lovers use more specific names. Botanists usually reserve “Lady’s Slipper” for the hardy *Cypripedium*, while referring to the tropical *Paphiopedilum* as the “Venus Slipper.”
Finding the Perfect Spot for Your Paphiopedilum
Because of their tropical roots, *Paphiopedilum* orchids need a spot that feels like a rainforest:
- In the summer, they love temperatures between 68°F and 77°F.
- In the winter, they prefer it slightly cooler, ranging from 60°F to 72°F.
- Humidity is key! They thrive when the air moisture is between 50% and 70%.
A warm, bright windowsill is usually the perfect “happy place” for a *Paphiopedilum*.
On the flip side, the hardy *Cypripedium* is much more low-maintenance when it comes to humidity. While they don’t like to bake in summer heat (keep them under 86°F), they are incredibly tough in the winter. If they’re tucked under a cozy blanket of snow, these outdoor orchids can survive temperatures as low as -13°F!
When Do They Bloom?
You’ll also notice a big difference in their blooming schedules.
The Ever-Blooming Paphiopedilum
Generally speaking, *Paphiopedilum* orchids don’t really do “dormancy.” If they’re happy, they can bloom almost year-round, though their peak season is usually between October and February.
The only exception? The mottled-leaf varieties. These guys actually need a little “beauty sleep” after their growth phase, preferring night temperatures to drop between 55°F and 60°F to trigger new growth.
The Hardy Cypripedium
Since *Cypripedium* orchids live outdoors, they follow the seasons. You’ll see their stunning flowers pop up between May and July. Once they’re done blooming, the plant actually retreats—the leaves die back, and the orchid stores its energy in underground rhizomes. You won’t see them again until they peek back out of the soil the following March.