Clustered lady's slipper (Cypripedium fasciculatum)

Also known as: Clustered lady's-slipper, Brownie lady's-slipper

C. fasciculatum features two pleated leaves typically found close to the ground, though occasionally they can be elevated up to 15 cm. The plant bears up to four flowers on a drooping stem, which may rest on the leaves or touch the ground. The petals and sepals exhibit a green to purplish-brown coloration, while the pouch is yellowish-green with purple streaks near the opening.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Attributes of Clustered lady's slipper

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

13 cm to 25 cm

Spread

10-15 cm (4-6 inches)

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

2-3 cm (0.8-1.2 inches)

Flower Color

Greenish-brown

Images of Clustered lady's slipper

Quickly Identify Clustered lady's slipper

It can be identified by its small size, twin leaves at the base of the stem, and the presence of clusters of small greenish-brown flowers. The distinct slipper-shaped pouch of the flower is a key feature.

Scientific Classification of Clustered lady's slipper

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Monocotyledons

Order

Asparagales

Family

Orchid

Genus

Slipper orchids

Species

Clustered lady's slipper

Planting and Growing of Clustered lady's slipper

Care Difficulty

Hard

Watering Schedule

Every 2 days

Sunlight Requirements

Partial sun

Sunshine Duration

4-8 hours

Ideal Temperature

60-70℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

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 Clustered lady's slipper?

The Cypripedium fasciculatum requires approximately 150ml of water per session, ensuring the soil remains consistently moist but not waterlogged. It's vital to water just until the water barely begins to seep out of the drainage, allowing for moisture retention without stagnation.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Clustered lady's slipper? ›

What should I do if my Clustered lady's slipper is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Clustered lady's slipper? ›

How to save an overwatered Clustered lady's slipper? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Clustered lady's slipper?

Sunlight Requirements: Partial sun, Full shade

Duration of light: 2 to 4 hours

Cypripedium fasciculatum thrives in partial sun to full shade, allowing it to simulate natural forest conditions. This range supports its growth by providing just enough light for photosynthesis while preventing dehydration.

What is the ideal lighting condition for Cypripedium fasciculatum? ›

How can you achieve ideal lighting for this plant? ›

What benefits arise from providing the ideal lighting conditions? ›

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Clustered lady's slipper?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 70℉

The ideal temperature range for Cypripedium fasciculatum falls between 60°F and 70°F. This range provides optimal conditions for metabolic processes, allowing for maximum growth and vitality. Maintaining these temperatures supports enzymatic activities crucial for the plant's development and photosynthesis.

What Soil is Best for Clustered lady's slipper?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam, Peat soil

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Cypripedium fasciculatum thrives in well-drained soil, which prevents water logging and root rot. The aeration provided by such soil improves root health and promotes robust plant growth. This species requires soil that can retain adequate moisture without becoming soggy. A balance in moisture helps the plant maintain its delicate balance of hydration, crucial for its survival. The plant benefits from soil rich in organic matter, which supplies essential nutrients and enhances microbial activity. A nutrient-rich environment facilitates healthy development and supports vigorous flowering.

How to Fertilize Clustered lady's slipper?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Cypripedium fasciculatum, it is important to use a balanced fertilizer. Liquid fertilizers should be diluted to half-strength to prevent root damage. Approximately 1/4 teaspoon per gallon of water is a suitable concentration. For slow-release fertilizers, a light sprinkle of 1-2 tablespoons per plant at the start of the growing season is ideal.

How to Prune Clustered lady's slipper?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer

Begin by carefully examining the plant for dead or discolored foliage. Use clean, sharp shears to remove these parts, cutting back to healthy tissue. Thin out sections where growth is dense, this allows better air circulation and sunlight penetration, reducing the risk of fungal infections. After the blooms have faded, trim back the flowering stems to the base. This encourages the plant to focus energy on root health and prepares it for the next season’s growth. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Clustered lady's slipper plant?

Propagate Time: Late spring, Early summer

Collect mature seeds from the plant and sow them on a sterile medium in a seed tray. Maintain a consistent temperature and humidity to mimic natural growing conditions and promote germination, which can take several weeks to months.

Using a sharp spade, carefully divide the mature plant ensuring each section has roots attached. Replant these divisions into suitable soil, maintaining the same soil depth as the parent plant to prevent shock and encourage healthy growth.

This method involves using lab-based techniques to grow the plant from small tissue samples in a sterile environment. It requires careful handling of plant tissues, sterile equipment, and controlled growth conditions to ensure success.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Clustered lady's slipper plant?

Repotting frequency: Once every two years

Repotting should be considered when roots outgrow the current pot or the soil becomes compacted and waterlogged. These signs indicate the plant needs more space to grow or improved drainage to thrive.

Select a pot that is just a size larger than the current one, with good drainage holes. This helps avoid excess moisture retention, reducing root rot risk, while providing ample room for root expansion, fostering healthier growth.

Use a well-draining and humus-rich soil mix. This type of soil mimics the plant's natural habitat, ensuring the roots receive enough air and nutrients while preventing waterlogging, fostering optimal growth conditions.