Clustered lady's slipper facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Clustered lady's slipper |
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| At Lake Blanche, Big Cottonwood Canyon, Utah | |
| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Cypripedium
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| Species: |
fasciculatum
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| Synonyms | |
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The clustered lady's slipper (scientific name: Cypripedium fasciculatum) is a special kind of orchid. It belongs to a group of orchids called Cypripedium, which are often known as lady's slippers. This name comes from the unique shape of their flowers, which look a bit like a slipper.
This particular lady's slipper is quite rare. It is one of only three types of Cypripedium orchids that grow only in western North America. The other two are C. montanum and C. californicum.
What Does It Look Like?
The clustered lady's slipper has two large leaves. These leaves are usually found close to the ground. Sometimes, they can grow a bit taller, up to about 15 centimeters (about 6 inches) high.
This orchid can have up to four flowers. These flowers hang down from a stem. They sometimes rest on the leaves or even touch the ground. The petals and sepals (which look like petals) are usually green or brownish-purple. The main part of the flower, which looks like a pouch or slipper, is yellowish-green. It often has purple stripes near its opening.
Where Does It Grow?
The clustered lady's slipper lives in the western parts of the United States. You can find it in states like Washington, Oregon, California, Colorado, Montana, Idaho, Utah, and Wyoming.
This orchid prefers cool, open coniferous forests. These are forests with trees like pines and firs. It mostly grows in mountain areas.
