Cypripedium Kristi Lyn gx

Cypripedium Kristi Lyn is a hybrid garden orchid that possesses the qualities of its two parents, Cypripedium pubescens and C. henryi. The plant, perennial by its rootstock, develops floral stems in summer, usually bearing several flowers with a characteristic Venus slipper shape, in yellow and brown tones. It is a perfectly hardy variety that multiplies very rapidly both in pots and in the garden when the conditions are suitable. It is cultivated in partial shade, in soil poor in organic matter, well-drained, non-calcareous, always slightly moist without being waterlogged. Like many orchids, it is easy to grow as long as its requirements are strictly respected.

Cypripedium Kristi Lyn belongs to the orchid family. It is a horticultural creation resulting from the cross-breeding between Cypripedium pubescens native to the northern United States, hardy at -30°C, and Cypripedium henryi native to China. Kristi Lyn's flowers resemble those of its first parent, while the second one has passed on the ability to bear up to 3 flowers per floral stem.

It is a rhizomatous plant that spreads in colonies over time. Its vegetation is deciduous, it emerges from the ground in spring and disappears in autumn. Cypripedium Kristi Lyn forms a clump of large, fairly light green leaves, ovate to elliptical, with very pronounced parallel veins. In our climates, this variety will reach an average height of 65cm (26in) when in bloom. The flowering generally takes place in August, when the plant is well established, at least 4 or 5 years old. The solid and robust floral stem develops directly from the rootstock. It is equipped with leaves all the way to the top. Alternating and distributed along these tall stems, two to three flowers appear, rarely four. They have the characteristic shape of lady's slipper flowers and measure about 12cm (5in) wide. Each one is composed of narrow and slightly spiralled sepals and petals, greenish yellow with brown spots, dominating an imposing 'slipper' labellum, very swollen, of a fairly light yellow punctuated with purple red on the inside. The entire vegetation is covered with a fine down that can be allergenic and irritating to the skin in certain individuals. These hairs are hosts to a symbiotic fungus. During winter, the foliage disappears and the plant persists in the form of a rootstock.

Cypripedium Kristi Lyn is quite demanding in terms of its habitat, but, if the conditions are met, it will be a real attraction for the cool areas of the garden and a source of pride for the gardener who has successfully acclimated it. It should be planted in lightly wooded areas or on the edge of woodland, in partial shade, in a carefully prepared substrate. It is a plant that dislikes heat, drought, limestone, and strong winds.

When you receive your orchids, handle them with care: these plants produce few roots and are delicate!