Cypripedium Japonicum

In 1737 Linnaeus discovered an orchid in Cyprus with a flower that looked like a pedilum, a slipper, and so named it Cypripedium. Today everyone calls plants from this genus Lady’s Slipper Orchids.
Cypripedium japonicum is most commonly cultivated in Japan, but in Europe has a reputation for being difficult to grow long-term. Despite this reputation, the National Botanic Garden of Wales has established a healthy cluster of these plants, currently in flower in the Double Walled Garden.
Planted in 2003, they are thriving under the shade of a dense group of large Astelia. This could be one reason for their success. They are growing in slightly acidic soil, mulched with organic garden compost, topped with wood chip. This may be the precise set of conditions required to make this un-European plant happy. Or it may be just luck. Regardless, the display presently on show justifies all attempts.
Their leaves are light green and fan shaped. Its rounded, bellowing, nodding white flower with pink markings emerges centrally from a single spike about 1 foot tall.
This group will make a rare and exciting European sight over the next few days.