Cypripedium macranthos — a hard houseplant, prefers partial sun light
SPECIMEN · FROM THE LIBRARY
Cypripedium macranthos

Cypripedium Macranthos

Updated · 6 observations
ON THIS PLANT

Cypripedium macranthos, commonly known as the large-flowered cypripedium or da hua shao lan, is a species of orchid native to Russia and East Asia.

A note from PlantMom

Large-flowered cypripedium typically shows strong disease resistance and is troubled by relatively few insect pests. Its care is considered difficult because it needs high humidity combined with good ventilation and minimal harmful pathogens. Overwatering can cause root rot. While anyone can grow Large-flowered cypripedium, keeping it healthy and getting it to bloom again requires more cultivation experience.

— PlantMom
CARE GUIDE

How to keep Cypripedium Macranthos.

Light

Large-flowered cypripedium is native to habitats like forest understories and rocky areas, where it grows in natural shade. It prefers partial sun but can adjust to full sun or full shade, demonstrating its versatile and hardy nature.

Water

The large-flowered cypripedium originates from temperate forests and thrives in moist environments. While it has moderate drought tolerance, it needs weekly watering to stay hydrated and maintain stable humidity, particularly during its active growing season. Consistent irrigation is essential for its flowering.

Temperature

Large-flowered cypripedium can adapt to a wide range of temperature conditions, but its distribution may still be restricted by different combinations of moisture and heat. It performs best in warm summer climates with sufficient rainfall or watering. Extended periods of cloudy, rainy weather or prolonged high temperatures can raise the likelihood of Large-flowered cypripedium dying. In winter, appropriate protection from the cold can increase the plant's survival rate.

Fertilizer

The best time to fertilize a Large-flowered cypripedium is in early spring, when it is breaking dormancy and beginning active growth. Fertilization supplies essential nutrients needed for healthy development. Although the Large-flowered cypripedium has relatively modest fertilizer requirements, applying fertilizer annually can improve its survival and encourage better, longer-lasting blooms.

Pruning

The large-flowered cypripedium is known for its large blooms and benefits from light pruning in early to late spring. To promote healthier growth and improve airflow, remove any dead or damaged stems, but be sure to avoid heavy pruning to prevent stunted development. Regular and minimal pruning will ensure vibrant blooms and maintain the overall health of the plant.

CHARACTERISTICS

Botanical profile.

Plant Type
Herb
Life Cycle
Perennial
Genus
Cypripedium
Family
Orchidaceae
Hardiness Zone
3-7
Mature Height
15 cm to 30 cm
Mature Spread
20 cm to 30 cm
Leaf Color
Green, Dark Green
Leaf Type
Deciduous
Flower Color
Purple, Pink
Flower Size
5.08 cm to 7.62 cm
Bloom Time
Mid spring, Late spring
Planting Time
Spring, Autumn
Harvest Time
Early summer, Mid summer
Native Area
Russia, Kazakhstan, Japan, Mongolia, Koppen, South Korea, China
ALSO KNOWN AS

Other names.

en Big-flower lady’s slipper en Rosy lady's slipper
ALSO IN THE LIBRARY

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