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Photo by M. Weinert taken at Weinert Gdn, Germany
Cypripedium 'Aki Pastel'
Aki Pastel Ladyslipper Orchid
This plant is not currently for sale. This is an archive page preserved for informational use.
Shop Available CypripediumItem #: 8073
Zones: 4a to 7b, probably colder
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)
Cypripedium 'Aki Pastel' is a highly sought after ladyslipper orchid, developed from a cross of the Chinese Cypripedium macranthos with the American Cypripedium parviflorum var. pubescens. The 18" tall stalks are topped in late spring with large flowers which consist of a "slipper" of white, backed by three twisted yellow sepals, each highlighted by small cinnamon specks. Our offerings are all seed-grown flowering-sized plants...each one is slightly different. Quantities are very limited.
Maintenance:
Cypripedium 'Aki Pastel' 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, since orchids have a complex pollination mechanism built into the flowers.
