The Story
Plant Bio
Cypripedium calceolus, commonly known as the Lady's Slipper orchid, is known for its striking yellow pouch-like flowers which bloom in late spring.
The cultivar 'Bernd' is distinguished by its larger flowers and robust growth habit compared to typical specimens of Cypripedium calceolus.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
18 inches
Width
10 inches
Light
Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
4, 5, 6
Water
Consistently moist
Humidity
High humidity preferred
Lifespan
Decades with proper care
Native To
Europe and Asia
Toxicity
Contact with foliage may cause skin irritation
Bloom period
Late spring – Early summer
In flower about 2 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into a well-draining, humus-rich soil in early fall.
- Mist the soil regularly to keep it moist but not waterlogged.
- Place in partial shade with protection from strong winds.
- Transplant mature plants in early spring, avoiding frost periods.
- Apply a layer of mulch to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
- Divide rhizomes every 3-4 years in late winter for vigorous growth.
Pro Tip
Use a shade cloth during hot summer months to prevent leaf scorch.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water consistently to keep soil moist 🌱
- Apply organic compost annually for healthy growth
- Mulch around plants to conserve moisture
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Do not expose to direct, harsh sunlight in summer
- Refrain from disturbing roots during dormancy
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Plant |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Bernd Yellow Lady's Slipper questions
What zones can Bernd Yellow Lady's Slipper grow in?
Bernd Yellow Lady's Slipper is hardy in USDA Zones 4–6. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Bernd Yellow Lady's Slipper deer resistant?
Yes — Bernd Yellow Lady's Slipper is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Bernd Yellow Lady's Slipper bloom?
Bernd Yellow 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 Bernd Yellow Lady's Slipper need full sun?
Bernd Yellow Lady's Slipper does best in part shade.
More Cypripedium to compare
Small Yellow Lady's Slipper
Cypripedium parviflorum 'var parviflorum'
Showy Lady's Slipper
Cypripedium reginae
Lady's Slipper Orchid Hybrid Emil
Cypripedium x hybrida 'Emil'
Sabine's Lady's Slipper
Cypripedium sabine
Gabriela's Lady's Slipper
Cypripedium x gabrieleae 'Gabriela'
Large-flowered Lady's Slipper
Cypripedium macranthos
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Bernd 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.