perennialN. America Native

Showy Lady's Slipper

Cypripedium reginae

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

Expertly Curated

Real-Time Pricing

Loved by Designers

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

30 inches

Width

12 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7

Water

Consistently moist soil

Humidity

Prefers high humidity environments

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

North America

Toxicity

Contact with leaves can cause skin irritation

The Story

Plant Bio

Cypripedium reginae, commonly known as the Showy Lady's Slipper, is a perennial orchid native to North America. It features large, showy flowers with white petals and sepals and an inflated pouch that is typically rose-pink. This species is known for its striking pink flowers and preference for moist, shady environments, often found in bogs and woodlands.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

A charming woodland perennial with elegant, fragrant flowers that add delicate beauty to shaded gardens.

Provides natural ground cover in shady areas, helping to suppress weeds and conserve soil moisture.

Supports native pollinators and contributes to forest understory biodiversity.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into moist, well-draining soil in early spring.
Water regularly to keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Mist cuttings weekly to maintain humidity during propagation.
Transplant seedlings when they are large enough to handle, typically after 2-3 years.
Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring and mid-summer for healthy growth.
Mulch around the roots to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.

Pro Tip

Use a shady, cool location with rich, well-draining soil for optimal growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide dappled shade or partial sun ☀️
Keep soil moist and rich in organic matter
Mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds
Use organic fertilizer in spring
Monitor for pests regularly

Don't

Avoid direct, harsh sunlight which can scorch leaves ❌
Do not let soil dry out completely
Refrain from over-fertilizing, which can harm roots
Avoid heavy, waterlogged soil
Never disturb the roots unnecessarily

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Divide
Fertilize
Mulch
Plant
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Elegant woodland borderShady rock garden accentFragrant, woodland understory

Companion Plants

Ferns Hostas Trilliums Virginia bluebells Solomon's seal

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Showy Lady's Slipper questions

What zones can Showy Lady's Slipper grow in?

Showy 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 Showy Lady's Slipper deer resistant?

Yes — Showy Lady's Slipper is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Showy Lady's Slipper bloom?

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

Does Showy Lady's Slipper need full sun?

Showy Lady's Slipper does best in part shade.