Cypripedium 'Hank Small'

Hank Small Hardy Ladyslipper Orchid

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Item #: 7505

Zones: 4a to 8a

Dormancy: Winter, Fall

Height: 18" tall

Culture: Part Sun to Light Shade

Origin: Hybrid

Pot Size: 3.5" pot (24 fl. oz/0.7 L)


Regular price $90.00
Regular price Sale price $90.00
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Cypripedium 'Hank Small' is a 1991 Carson Whitlow hybrid that is the result of a pre-arranged rendezvous between the US native Cypripedium parviflorum var. parviflorum and the Chinese Cypripedium henryi. This easy-to-grow selection produces 18" tall stalks, topped in mid-spring with a rich, deep yellow pouch, backed by long, twisted cinnamon sepals for a stunning contrast. Our offerings of Cypripedium 'Hank Small' are all flowering-sized plants. I couldn't figure how an orchid was named for a one-year Atlanta Braves baseball player, when Carson shared that the hybrid is actually named for its parents. Hank is a common name for one parent Cypripedium henryi, and Cypripedium parviflorum means "small"...very cute.

Maintenance:

Lady slipper orchids are maintenance free in the garden once they are established in the correct growing conditions.

Growing Conditions:

Cypripedium prefer soils that are very well drained, and rich in compost. In containers, we like to add Permatill (popped slate) or a Pumice like product. Average moisture levels are great, but be certain soils do not remain waterlogged.

Lady slipper orchids are woodland plants, and most species do not have any sun tolerance. We have found that light, high shade is ideal.

Planting is critical, as roots must be spread horizontally just below the soil surface and not stuck deep in the ground as is the case with virtually all other plants. The growth bud should be planted just below the soil surface.

Natural Impacts:

Bees are the primary pollinators for lady slipper orchids, since orchids have a complex pollination mechanism built into the flowers.