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Cypripedium arietinum, is an orchid that is native to the alvars around the Great Lakes in North America.
Description
The plant grows to 10-40 cm, and the flowers may reach 1-2 cm (0.5-0.75 in). It flowers from May to June, producing brownish-green fragrant flowers with a pink and white lip.
The plant is Uncommon in Ontario, rare in Manitoba, the Ram's-Head Lady's-Slipper is a threatened plant species in many areas within its range, including Wisconsin, Michigan, and Saskatchewan. It is believed to be extirpated in Connecticut.
This flower has now been listed as an endangered species in Nova Scotia
Distribution
Plants are found in coniferous forest in damp swamps and rockey slopes from elevations of 0 to 1000 meters.
Culture
The pH of the potting media should be around 6. This species has a very difficult establishing when transplanted because of heavy loss of roots. But when it establishes, it is easy to grow. Plant grows in shade.
Naming
Common Names: Ram's-Head Lady's-Slipper
Synonyms
- Arietinum americanum L.C. Beck 1833
- Criosanthes arietina (R. Br. in W.T. Aiton) House
- Criosanthes borealis Raf. 1818; Cypripedium arietina House
- Cypripedium arietinum f. biflorum P.M.Br. 1995