Cypripedium 'Gisela Pastel'
Ladyslipper Orchid
This plant is not currently for sale. This is an archive page preserved for informational use.
Shop Available CypripediumItem #: 7516
Zones: 4a to 7b, probably colder
Dormancy: Winter, Fall
Height: 15" tall
Culture: Part Sun to Light Shade
Origin: Hybrid
Pot Size: 3.5" pot (24 fl. oz/0.7 L)
Cypripedium 'Gisela Pastel' is a selection from the same cross that gave rise to Cypripedium 'Gisela' (Cypripedium macranthos x Cypripedium parviflorum v. parviflorum). This plant was selected for its creamy yellow pouch, backed by three large yellow sepals with streaks of dark burgundy. These plants are vigorous flowering-sized plants, which in May (NC) are topped with 15" stalks of flowers...each year, they get better and better.
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.
