Cypripedium parviflorum 'var parviflorum'
perennialN. America Native

Small Yellow Lady's Slipper

Cypripedium parviflorum 'var parviflorum'

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

18 inches

Width

12 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7

Water

Moist

Humidity

High

Lifespan

Decades

Native To

North America

Toxicity

Handling may cause skin irritation

The Story

Plant Bio

Suitable for moist, shady areas in woodland gardens. This native orchid is distinguished by its pouch-like yellow petal (labellum) and spirally twisted, greenish-brown to purplish sepals and petals.

Bloom Period:

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesAdds delicate, woodland charm to shaded gardens with its intricate flowers.
Practical UsesProvides natural ground cover in areas with moist, shaded soil.
Ecological BenefitsSupports native pollinators and enhances biodiversity in woodland habitats.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

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Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds into well-draining, humus-rich soil in early fall.
  2. Mist cuttings lightly and keep soil moist during root development.
  3. Provide partial shade and consistent moisture for optimal growth.
  4. Transplant seedlings when they are established, typically in early spring.
  5. Mulch around plants to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.
  6. Divide mature plants every 3-4 years to promote healthy growth.

Pro Tip

Maintain evenly moist soil and avoid direct, harsh sunlight for best results.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water regularly to keep soil moist but not soggy 🌱
  • Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring
  • Mulch to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature
  • Monitor for pests and diseases to catch issues early

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering which can cause root rot ❌
  • Don’t expose plants to full, direct sunlight during hot afternoons
  • Refrain from disturbing roots during dormancy
  • Don’t neglect to remove dead or damaged foliage

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Divide
Fertilize
Mulch
Pest Check
Plant
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shade garden with delicate, woodland aestheticMoisture-loving border with lush greenery

Companion Plants

Fern Trillium Hosta Astilbe Solomon's Seal

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Small Yellow Lady's Slipper questions

What zones can Small Yellow Lady's Slipper grow in?

Small Yellow Lady's Slipper is hardy in USDA Zones 4–7. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Small Yellow Lady's Slipper deer resistant?

Yes β€” Small Yellow Lady's Slipper is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Small Yellow Lady's Slipper bloom?

Small Yellow Lady's Slipper typically blooms in late spring through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone β€” Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Small Yellow Lady's Slipper need full sun?

Small Yellow Lady's Slipper does best in part shade.

Keep exploring

Grow Small Yellow Lady's Slipper with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.

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