Some plants give off a good vibe and positive energy to where they are. Usually, they are noticed by guests when showing its glossy leaves and fabulous flowers. Lady’s Slipper Orchids are such that plant. It is a plant coming forward with its flower such as Lipstick Plant. It has many local names due to having a lot of species. Also, its scientific name is Cypripediodeoe. Generally, this houseplant is found in Southeast Asia. But it takes an appropriate corner of any room thanks to its many species.
General information
Lady’s Slipper Orchids typically has an exceptional flower rising on the stick-like stem and a lot of arching broad leaves at the base. This houseplant’s magic comes from its slipper-shaped poach covering two male stamens. Thanks to this, its fertilizing process gets quicker. Generally, this houseplant blooms in the fall. In nature, it is an epiphyte plant such as Peperomia Hope and Swiss Cheese Vine. It is a perennial plant. According to their mature size, they could reach up to 15 inches (38 cm). Also, this houseplant is completely safe for everybody in the house due to being non-toxic.
2) How to Care for Cypripedioideae
Sunlight
Direct sunlight exposure all day long may probably kill the plant. Instead, semi-shade spaces and well-covered spots getting filtered sunlight are appropriate for this houseplant.
Watering
Weekly watering is enough to keep this plant healthy. The potting soil should be moist. Absolutely, you should water it at the moment when the potting soil is dry. This way, you may catch a watering routine.
Humidity
This houseplant doesn’t demand it much. So medium humidity is okay for it. But they can thrive better in high humidity. To ensure it, you may use wet pebble trays, distilled water sprays, and electronic humidifiers. Above all, sphagnum moss poles work as well.
Temperature
Moderate temperatures such as between 60°F – 77°F (16°C – 25°C) are optimal for this houseplant. But below 50°F (10°C) could be deadly. According to the USDA plant hardiness map, it can grow outdoor in zones 8 and 9.
Soil Type
All kinds of potting soil mixes work well. Moreover, you can make your potting mix. For example, you can use perlite, peat, sphagnum moss, compost, and so on.
Planter Type
Given this plant’s average size, you may prefer small planters.
Fertilizer
All sorts of fertilizers may be effective. For example, each granular, liquid, slow-releasing, and quick-releasing fertilizers do a great job. But for this plant, you should administer one-quarter balanced fertilizer monthly.
Propagation
The most preferred way among plant growers, the division is simple and viable for many plants. The same way could be applied for this plant as well.
Repotting
Pot changes should be done once two years in the spring season when the conditions require, for example, outgrown plants, cracked pots, old soils, and so forth.
Common Problems
Brown leaf tips: Such unpleasant looks stem from too much direct sunlight. Specifically, brown tips occur and spread on leaves when they are exposed over two hours in bare sunlight.
Pest infestation: Little invasive creatures such as aphids, whiteflies, mites, red spiders, and so on bring a serious problem to any plants. Therefore, Lady’s Slipper Orchids is a delicate and vulnerable plant.
Wilted leaves: Pale and unrigid leaves cover all beauty of any plant. Generally, less light may lead to this problem.
Suggestions for problems
To get rid of brown leaf tips, first of all, you should pinch off the brown parts. Then you should find appropriate places such as semi-shade spots or west-facing windowsills for this houseplant. Pest infestation is one of the problems that plants face. To remove bugs, you may apply the plant some beneficial things, for example, alcohol-based wipes, pesticide soaps, herbal essences, and neem oils. To keep rigid and glossy the whole plant, you have to be sure if the plant gets the proper light or not. Also, check if roots are alive or not.
Suggestions for the beginners
The common mistake of all beginners is overwatering. Not to deal with this problem, you should stick to the regular watering of it and be loyal to its timing.
