Cypripedium parviflorum aka Yellow Lady's Slipper

Cypripedium parviflorum is a perennial orchid from North America. Its common names include yellow lady's slipper and moccasin flower. Its native range stretches from subarctic America into the United States. It grows in Canada and across much of the US. Wild plants occur in woods, open meadows, and beside streams. In North Carolina, it grows in the Piedmont and mountains.

The plant grows upright and spreads to form colonies over time. It has rhizomes and may produce four or five stems. Green hairs cover the stems, which lack a scent. Each stem bears three to five simple, alternate leaves. These range from pale to medium green, with darker veins. Their shapes range from oval to egg-shaped, with smooth edges. The leaf bases clasp the stems, and hairs cover their surfaces. Leaves reach about 0.5 feet [0.15 metres] in length. They can reach 0.33 feet [0.10 metres] across. Leaf size and hair cover vary across its range.

Flowers open from late spring into early summer. Each stem carries one or two blooms. These measure about 0.13–0.17 feet [0.04–0.05 metres] long. The lower lip forms a bright yellow pouch. Red spots and veins mark the pouch's inner surface. The other petals and sepals twist outwards. Their shades range from pale to deep reddish brown. Flower size and colour vary with the region. Bees pollinate the blooms, which give the plant its garden appeal. Later, the seedpods split and release very fine seeds. Wind carries these seeds away from the parent plant.

In gardens, give this orchid partial shade or dappled light. It needs moist soil that drains well and contains organic matter. North Carolina State recommends adding compost before planting. Spread the roots across the soil surface, then cover with compost. The roots need this shallow placement rather than deep burial. The species suits native plant gardens and woodland beds. It grows in USDA hardiness zones 3–8. Division provides a way to raise more plants.

North Carolina State rates its upkeep as moderate. It also ranks among the easier garden orchids to grow. Deer browse the plant and can damage it. The same source flags a risk of contact dermatitis.