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Cypripedium 'Francis'

Francis Hardy Ladyslipper Orchid

This plant is not currently for sale. This is an archive page preserved for informational use.

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Item #: 10649

Zones: 4a to 7b, at least

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 'Francis' is a 2001 Owen Robinson release...a cross of the US native Cypripedium kentuckiense and the Asian native Cypripedium speciosum. Cypripedium 'Francis', named after Owen's dad, forms a 15" tall specimen, topped with medium-sized flowers with a white and purple stained pouch from the Cypripedium speciosum parent, and backed with long, twisted, purple striped sepals that show the influence of Cypripedium kentuckiense. As with all cypripedium, slightly moist but well-drained soils are best. Our offerings are all flowering-sized plants.

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.