Origin and Common Names
Cypripedium parviflorum Salisb. var. makasin (Farw.) Sheviak is a perennial orchid plant that is native to North America. It is commonly referred to as Makasin Cypripedium, Small Yellow Lady's-slipper, or Nerve Root Cypripedium. The plant is known for its unique beauty and is a popular choice among plant enthusiasts.
General Appearance
The Makasin Cypripedium is a herbaceous plant that grows up to 60 cm tall. It has a single stem that sprouts from a basal rosette of leaves. The stem produces one or two leaves that are oval-shaped and bright green in color. The leaves can reach up to 15 cm in length and are covered with fine hairs. The flowers of the Makasin Cypripedium are striking and beautiful, consisting of three sepals (outer petals) and three petals (inner petals). The sepals are yellow-green in color and are fused at the base to form a sack-like structure. The petals are smaller than the sepals and are yellow in color. The lip, or labellum, of the flower is large and pouch-like, and can be up to 4 cm long. It is also bright yellow in color and covered with fine hairs.
Uses
The Makasin Cypripedium is not only of interest to plant enthusiasts but also has medicinal properties. The plant has been used by Native American tribes to treat various ailments, such as stomach problems, headaches, and anxiety. The root of the plant, known as Nerve Root, is used in many herbal remedies and is believed to have sedative properties. However, it's important to note that the plant is considered endangered in some areas due to over-harvesting and habitat destruction, and therefore should be used with caution.
Light Requirements
Cypripedium parviflorum Salisb. var. makasin (Farw.) Sheviak is known to thrive in partially shaded areas where they can receive a moderate amount of sunlight. Direct exposure to intense sunlight can cause damage to the leaves and petals, leading to stunted growth or discoloration. As such, it is important to ensure that the plant is placed in an area where it can be protected from harsh sunlight, but still receive sufficient light for photosynthesis.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature for the growth of Cypripedium parviflorum Salisb. var. makasin (Farw.) Sheviak is between 15 to 25 degrees Celsius. Temperature variations outside of this range, particularly extreme heat, can cause wilting and nutrient deficiencies. It is important to note that during winter, the plant goes dormant, and its temperature requirements vary. During this time, it should be kept in a cool area with a temperature range between 5 to 10 degrees Celsius.
Soil Requirements
Cypripedium parviflorum Salisb. var. makasin (Farw.) Sheviak requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil pH should be between 5.5 and 7.0. The plant thrives in soils that are wet, but not water-logged. In areas where the soil is poorly drained, it is recommended to grow the plant in a raised bed. During the growing season, the plant requires frequent watering to ensure the soil is moist, but not water-logged. During the dormant period, it is recommended to reduce watering to avoid fungal infections.
Cultivation Methods
Cypripedium parviflorum Salisb. var. makasin (Farw.) Sheviak is a terrestrial orchid species endemic to North America and is commonly referred to as the yellow lady's slipper. The plant thrives in well-draining soils with slightly acidic to neutral pH levels. It requires moderate to low light levels and thrives in shaded areas or regions with morning sun and afternoon shade. This orchid species can be grown in beds, containers, or rock gardens.
Watering Needs
The watering needs of Cypripedium parviflorum Salisb. var. makasin (Farw.) Sheviak are unique compared to other orchids. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which is fatal to the plant. Therefore, it is best to water it in moderation. The soil should be kept moist, but the plant should not sit in standing water. It is advisable to water the plant when the topsoil has slightly dried out. Watering is also critical during the flowering period to improve the longevity of the blooms.
Fertilization
Fertilization is necessary to provide Cypripedium parviflorum Salisb. var. makasin (Farw.) Sheviak with the required nutrients. It is essential to use a slow-release orchid fertilizer, preferably after the flowering period. Over-fertilizing the plant is not recommended and can cause severe damage. The recommended fertilizer ratio is 10-10-10 NPK with trace elements. It is essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions on the correct dosage and applications for optimal plant growth.
Pruning
Pruning is a crucial aspect of Cypripedium parviflorum Salisb. var. makasin (Farw.) Sheviak cultivars. Deadheading the spent flowers is recommended to encourage the development of new buds and prolong the flowering period. The flower stem should be cut back at the base of the flower spike once it has wilted. Reducing excessive foliage is also essential to promote plant health and reduce the risk of diseases such as fungal infections. However, it is critical to avoid cutting through the base of the plant's leaves, as this can cause irreversible damage.
Propagation of Cypripedium parviflorum Salisb. var. makasin (Farw.) Sheviak
Cypripedium parviflorum Salisb. var. makasin (Farw.) Sheviak, also known as the Small Yellow Lady's Slipper Orchid, is a native North American plant that can be propagated through several methods.
Division
The easiest way to propagate Cypripedium parviflorum Salisb. var. makasin is through division. This method works best when the plant has formed multiple growths or when the roots have grown out of the pot. To divide the plant, carefully remove it from its pot and gently separate the growths and roots. Each division should have at least three shoots and a good, healthy root system. Pot each division individually in a well-draining media, keeping the crown of the plant level with the surface of the media.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is also possible for Cypripedium parviflorum Salisb. var. makasin, but it is a more complicated process. The species require a mycorrhizal association in order to germinate successfully. Therefore, it is recommended to work with a specialist in the field to provide the specific fungus required. When the seed coat has been weakened, it can be sown on aseptic nutrient agar. The germinating seedlings should be visible around 3 months later. When sufficient growth has occurred, seedlings can be gradually acclimatized to greenhouse conditions and then transplanted into potting media.
Cuttings
Cypripedium parviflorum Salisb. var. makasin can be propagated through stem or root cuttings but this method is more advanced and requires more attention. Cuttings must be prepared from healthy growths with vigorous shoots. It is essential to ensure the cuttings are kept moist and humid in a well-ventilated environment. Once strong root development has been established, the cuttings can be transplanted into potting media.
Disease and Pest Management for Cypripedium parviflorum Salisb. var. makasin (Farw.) Sheviak
Cypripedium parviflorum Salisb. var. makasin (Farw.) Sheviak is a wildflower native to North America and is a beautiful addition to gardens and landscapes. However, like any other plant, it is susceptible to diseases and pests which may deteriorate or even kill the plant. Hence, it's essential to implement proper disease and pest management practices to ensure the plant's survival and growth.
Common Diseases
Fungal Diseases: Botrytis blight, root rot, and fusarium wilt are common fungal diseases that might affect C. parviflorum. Botrytis blight causes gray mold on the leaves, flowers, and stems, while root rot causes the plant to wilt and die. Fusarium wilt causes the foliage to turn yellow and brown before eventually dropping from the plant.
Viral Diseases: Viral diseases such as the tomato spotted wilt virus can cause spotted leaves and stunted growth.
Pest Management
Slugs and Snails: Slugs and snails can be controlled by spreading diatomaceous earth around the plants or using slug baits. Handpicking them is also an option.
Spider Mites: Spider mites can be controlled by spraying the plant with water or using pesticides such as insecticidal soap. Moreover, neem oil, which naturally repels pests, can also be used for controlling spider mites.
Disease Management
Fungicides: To control fungal diseases, use effective fungicides such as chlorothalonil or copper-based fungicides. Care must be taken to follow the manufacturer's instructions before application.
Sanitation: Regularly cleaning debris and dead plant material around the plant can prevent fungal diseases from spreading.
Plant Resistance: Some varieties of C. parviflorum have been developed to resist fungal diseases such as botrytis blight, and it's recommended to plant those varieties to minimize the risk of disease.
By following appropriate pest and disease management practices, gardeners can help protect their C. parviflorum from potential harm and ensure its healthy growth.
