Spotted lady slipper facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Spotted lady slipper |
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| Scientific classification | |
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Cypripedium
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| Species: |
yatabeanum
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The spotted lady slipper (Cypripedium yatabeanum) is a special type of orchid that grows in the ground. It is also sometimes called the palomino lady's slipper. This beautiful plant is found in cold northern places. You can see it growing naturally in Alaska, including the Aleutian Islands. It also grows in the Russian Far East, like the Kamchatka Peninsula and the Kuril Islands. You can find it in northern Japan too.
This orchid is very similar to another one called Cypripedium guttatum. But you can tell the spotted lady slipper apart by its flowers. They are usually yellow-green. Also, its "lip" (which is part of the flower) is narrower and longer.
Contents
What is a Lady Slipper Orchid?
Lady slipper orchids are a group of orchids known for their unique flower shape. One of their petals forms a pouch or "slipper." This pouch helps to trap insects. The insects then pollinate the flower as they try to escape. It's a clever way for the plant to make sure its pollen gets spread!
The Slipper Shape
The "slipper" part of the flower is actually a modified petal. It looks like a small, colorful pouch. This pouch is often spotted or striped, which gives the spotted lady slipper its name. The spots can be brown, purple, or reddish.
Where Does the Spotted Lady Slipper Grow?
This orchid likes cool, damp places. It often grows in forests or open woodlands. It can be found in areas with mossy ground or rich soil. Because it grows in northern regions, it is used to cold winters and mild summers.
Its Natural Home
- Alaska: You can find it in many parts of Alaska, especially in the Aleutian Islands.
- Russian Far East: It thrives in places like the Kamchatka Peninsula and the Kuril Islands.
- Northern Japan: It also grows in the cooler, northern parts of Japan.
What Does the Spotted Lady Slipper Look Like?
The spotted lady slipper is a medium-sized orchid. It usually grows to be about 20 to 50 centimeters (8 to 20 inches) tall. It has a few broad, green leaves along its stem.
The Flowers
The most interesting part is its flower. It usually has one or two flowers on each stem. The flowers are typically yellow-green. They have dark spots or streaks, which gives the plant its "spotted" name. The "slipper" part of the flower is quite noticeable. It's usually a bit longer and narrower than in some other lady slipper types.
How Does It Grow?
Like many orchids, the spotted lady slipper grows from a rhizome (an underground stem). It can live for many years. It needs specific conditions to grow well, including the right kind of soil and light.
Life Cycle of the Orchid
Orchids have a fascinating life cycle. They produce tiny seeds that are like dust. These seeds need help from special fungi in the soil to sprout and grow. This is why orchids can be hard to grow outside of their natural habitat. Once they sprout, they slowly grow into mature plants that can produce their own flowers and seeds.
