Calypso orchid (Calypso bulbosa)

Also known as: Western Fairy Slipper, Calypso, Fairyslipper Orchid, Venus's slipper

The calypso orchid (Calypso bulbosa) gets its name from the Greek word "Calypso," which means "she who conceals." This is an apt name since the orchid thrives hidden beneath the shade of tall pines and other forest trees. Interestingly, the plant deceives bees by mimicking nectar-producing structures, although it actually produces no nectar, tricking the bees into thinking they will find food.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Attributes of Calypso orchid

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

10 cm to 14 cm

Spread

10 cm

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

3 cm to 4 cm

Flower Color

White Purple Yellow Red

Images of Calypso orchid

Quickly Identify Calypso orchid

Look for its singular flower on a leafless stalk, which is about 10-25cm tall. The flower is pink to purplish, with a bulb-like base and a slipper-shaped lip marked with white, yellow, and various shades of purple.

Scientific Classification of Calypso orchid

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Monocotyledons

Order

Asparagales

Family

Orchid

Genus

Fairy slipper

Species

Calypso orchid

Planting and Growing of Calypso orchid

Care Difficulty

Hard

Watering Schedule

Every 2 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full shade

Sunshine Duration

4-8 hours

Ideal Temperature

55-70℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

4.5-6.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Calypso orchid?

Calypso bulbosa thrives in moisture-rich environments. Watering should be enough to moisten the root system but avoid waterlogging. Approximately 100ml per session ensures the soil remains slightly damp without being overly soaked.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Calypso orchid? ›

What should I do if my Calypso orchid is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Calypso orchid? ›

How to save an overwatered Calypso orchid? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Calypso orchid?

Sunlight Requirements: Full shade

Duration of light: 1-2 hours daily

Partial shade is ideal for Calypso bulbosa. This condition allows the plant to thrive akin to its natural habitat, promoting robust growth and vibrant blooms.

What is the ideal light for Calypso bulbosa? ›

How to obtain ideal light conditions for Calypso bulbosa? ›

What are the benefits of ideal lighting for Calypso bulbosa? ›

More About Sunlight Requirements Techniques→

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Calypso orchid?

Ideal Temperature: 55 ~ 70℉

Calypso bulbosa thrives best between 55°F and 70°F. This range supports optimal growth and flowering conditions. The temperature ensures adequate warmth without the risk of overheating or chilling, facilitating healthy development of flowers and foliage.

What Soil is Best for Calypso orchid?

Soil type: Loam, Acidic soil, Sandy soil

Soil PH: 4.5 ~ 6.5

Calypso bulbosa thrives in soil that retains moisture well without becoming waterlogged. Proper moisture levels help maintain the plant's delicate root system, ensuring healthy growth and vibrant blooms. The soil must be well-aerated to facilitate gas exchange for Calypso bulbosa roots. This quality promotes root health by preventing rot and disease, enabling better nutrient uptake for the plant. A nutrient-rich soil base supports the nutritional needs of Calypso bulbosa, leading to robust plant development. Essential nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium are crucial for flower production and overall vitality.

How to Fertilize Calypso orchid?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

Calypso bulbosa, known for its delicate roots, requires minimal fertilization. When applying liquid fertilizer, a diluted quarter-strength solution is sufficient to avoid overwhelming the roots. For slow-release fertilizers, a light sprinkle ensuring it doesn't touch the plant directly is recommended.

How to Prune Calypso orchid?

Pruning Time: Autumn

Carefully examine your Calypso bulbosa and identify any dead or yellowing leaves and wilted flowers. Focus mainly on the removal of these areas to encourage healthy growth. This process not only improves the plant's appearance but also aids in disease prevention. When pruning, make clean cuts close to the base of dead stems and leaves. Ensure your cuts are clean and straight to promote quicker healing. Be cautious not to cut the healthy green parts unless necessary to avoid unnecessary stress on the plant. After pruning, water your Calypso bulbosa thoroughly and consider applying a gentle, balanced fertilizer. This helps to support recovery and encourages robust growth. Ensure the plant is situated in a suitable environment to minimize stress during the post-pruning phase. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Calypso orchid plant?

Propagate Time: Spring,Late spring

Gather seeds from mature Calypso bulbosa plants during late spring. Ensure the seeds are ripe, and avoid bruised or underdeveloped ones. Once collected, let them dry in a cool, dry place before sowing.

Prepare seed trays with a well-draining medium. Sow the seeds on the surface of the substrate, pressing them gently to ensure good soil contact. Do not cover seeds with soil as they require light exposure to germinate.

Place seed trays under indirect sunlight and maintain a temperature of around 15-20°C. Keep the medium consistently moist but not waterlogged. Germination can take several weeks, so patience is key.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Calypso orchid plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Calypso bulbosa signals it's time for repotting when the plant becomes root-bound, showing roots emerging from the drainage holes, or when the soil appears exhausted and compacted. Optimal repotting occurs in spring or autumn when the plant is less active, allowing it to establish better in its new environment.

Select a pot no more than 2 inches larger than the current one with sufficient drainage holes. This ensures proper aeration and prevents root rot, providing an environment conducive to healthy root development. Smaller pots encourage quicker drying of the medium, aligning with the water-sensitive nature of Calypso bulbosa.

Opt for a well-draining orchid mix that replicates the forest floor conditions. This should include bark, perlite, and some sphagnum moss which together maintain moisture while allowing air circulation crucial for the delicate roots of Calypso bulbosa.