Garden hybrid

This is a garden hybrid, bred from more than one wild species, so it has no single species page of its own.

3 other cultivars

perennial

Gisela Lady's Slipper

Cypripedium x hybrida 'Gisela'

The Story

Plant Bio

Cypripedium x godefroianum 'Gisela' is a hybrid lady's slipper orchid known for its unique and attractive blooms.

This cultivar is particularly noted for its resilient nature and ability to thrive in woodland settings.

Uses & Benefits:

Adds elegant, exotic charm to shaded gardens with its striking slipper-shaped flowers.

Provides a natural habitat for pollinators like bees and butterflies.

Supports native woodland ecosystems by thriving in shaded, humus-rich soils.

Garden hybrid

Bred from more than one wild species, so it has no species page of its own.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

16 inches

Width

12 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7

Water

Consistent moisture, avoid waterlogging

Humidity

High humidity preferred

Lifespan

Decades

Native To

North America and Asia

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Bloom period

Late spring – Early summer

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into moist soil in early spring for best germination.
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and encourage rooting.
Plant rhizomes in well-draining, humus-rich soil in a shaded spot.
Water consistently during the growing season to keep soil moist.
Fertilize with a balanced orchid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks.
Divide clumps every 3-4 years in early spring for healthy growth.

Pro Tip

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

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Maintain consistent moisture in the soil 🌱
Provide filtered or partial shade to prevent leaf scorch
Fertilize with orchid-specific fertilizer during active growth
Mulch to keep roots cool and retain moisture
Monitor for pests regularly

Don't

Avoid direct, harsh sunlight ❌
Do not overwater, which can cause root rot
Refrain from disturbing the roots unnecessarily
Never fertilize in winter when the plant is dormant
Avoid planting in heavy, poorly-draining soil

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Pest Check
Plant
Winter Prep

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shady woodland borderElegant orchid display in shade gardenPotted accent for shaded patios

Companion Plants

Ferns Hostas Astilbes Trilliums Solomon's Seal

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Gisela Lady's Slipper questions

What zones can Gisela Lady's Slipper grow in?

Gisela 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 Gisela Lady's Slipper deer resistant?

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

When does Gisela Lady's Slipper bloom?

Gisela 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 Gisela Lady's Slipper need full sun?

Gisela Lady's Slipper does best in part shade.