Cypripedium californicum

Quick Characteristics:

Cypripedium californicum A.Gray is a species native to mountainous areas of northern California and southern Oregon, USA. It occurs in areas with constant moisture such as stream-banks or serpentine seeps. The plant can reach up to 120 cm (47") tall and produces 3-12 flowers from May to July. It is a difficult species to cultivate outside of habitat. The first three photos below were taken along a creekside trail in Del Norte County, California by Mary Sue Ittner. The fourth photo was contributed by the UC Botanical Garden of a specimen growing in the California section of the garden. The last photo shows a plant cultivated by Robin Hansen.