Cypripedium formosanum

[parvi_17]

This is the first time I've grown this species. Bought it in the fall and it spent the winter in the fridge. In February it started to grow, so I took it out. I have to say, this is a stunning plant. It produced two flowers on two stems. Photos don't do this species justice; it is truly magnificent. Beautiful foliage AND flowers make this quite the Cyp. Unfortunately after only a few days the first flower is already starting to fade, probably because it is warm and dry in my house. It could use a bit more light too.

 

[monocotman]

Joe,
formosanum ( and japonicum) are 'outliers' in the world of cyp species.
Quite different and earlier than the others. You've done well.
I have heard of other people growing this species indoors, especially early in the season to enjoy the flowers.
David

 

[JPMC]

WOW! I need to get one of these. Beautiful flower and foliage.

 

[parvi_17]

Thanks guys.

Yes, formosanum and japonicum are quite different. I knew this one was earlier so I wasn't concerned about it breaking dormancy earlier. Apparently they can emerge in February and stay green until November if kept warm enough, when container grown. I just wish I had a spot that was a little cooler and more humid, as I think I would get longer lasting flowers. At any rate, it's a joy to see it bloom, and I look forward to seeing what it does in the future.

 

[cnycharles]

pretty and unusual

 

[Rick]

This is a pretty flower.

I haven't done any Cyps yet, but I think this is a good candidate for starting with in my GH.

 

[NYEric]

Very nice.

 

[SlipperFan]

Pretty princess. Besides the flower, I love the leaves.

 

[Eric Muehlbauer]

I love formosanum. I had one in my yard, and it bloomed every year for a while, then started to get shaded out and faded away. I'd love to get another.

 

[parvi_17]

I love formosanum. I had one in my yard, and it bloomed every year for a while, then started to get shaded out and faded away. I'd love to get another.

I wish I could grow one outside! It would make a lovely garden plant. One day I'll move to somewhere warmer

 

[The Orchid Boy]

Very nice! Hoping to get my first cyps this spring.

 

[KyushuCalanthe]

One of my favs, and probably the best one to grow in warm climates due to ease of cultivation, heat tolerance, and limited dormancy requirements.

 

[wjs2nd]

Very nice. I would love to see more photos!

 

[parvi_17]

Very nice. I would love to see more photos!

I will oblige! I didn't post this one because it's not as nice. It shows the other flower, which after only a few days, is starting to fade. I suspect that is from the hot, dry air that blows around the house from the furnace. I don't keep the plant right on top of a register of course, but it is somewhat near one.

 

[smartie2000]

nice!
I accidentally damaged mine last year b/c it froze a little in the spot where it was in my garage

 

[Erythrone]

Very nice!! Well grown!

 

[SlipperFan]

Amazing flower!

 

[Dido]

looks great congrats on that one, have problem to keep mine dormant too, start even with snow on top