Facts About

Accepted Synonyms: Cypripedium daultonii

Cypripedium kentuckiense, commonly known as Kentucky Lady's Slipper, is found across the southeastern United States, from Virginia to Texas. It has the largest bloom of any in the Cypripedium genus and produces a large cream to pale yellow pouch-like labellum and up to six large stem leaves. Its sepals and petals are greenish yellow, often spotted with red or brown, and twist away from the labellum in spirals. It is most closely related to Cypripedium parviflorum, but can be distinguished by its less brightly colored labellum. It is usually found in deciduous hardwood forests with acidic, well-drained soils, often in isolated patches. In Virginia, it is known to grow in a forested floodplain.

Cypripedium kentuckiense is considered globally vulnerable, due in large part to its limited range and shrinking habitat.

Pollination

The noctuid moth, Polychrysia morigera and carpenter bees in the genus Xylocopa have been recorded pollinating this orchid.

Ecosystem Type

Forests, woodlands

Characteristics

Native to North America

Yes

North American Conservation Status & Distribution