Lady Slipper EXPLOSION!

[RosieC]

How wonderful! What a find.

I would love to see these in the wild. The UK used to have some wild Cyps but I think they are really really rare these days.

[jrodpad]

I'm in eastern MA, though outside the 128 belt.

It really was spectacular - and thanks for the info on Cypripediums (Cypripeda?)... the OB is quite a resource.

- J

[johnblagg]

wow that is great ...I once found the yellows growing like that

[jrodpad]

According to the guy who was leading the nature walk, there are supposed to be yellow lady slippers in the mix as well - although far more rare than the pink. I didn’t spot any yellow ones. It’s the perfect excuse to return next weekend…

- J

[Tindomul]

Thats a nice healthy population. The ones I posted last week represented only about 5 or 6. But you could probably find 5 or 6 in one spot. Thanks for sharing.
There are about 43 species of Cyprepedium all found in the North Temperate climates. 3 in Europe I believe. I wish I could find them all and photograph them in the wild before I die.

[jrodpad]

I returned to the park a few days ago to try and hunt down one of the yellow cyps. No luck - but lots more of the pink blooms. If they're still around this weekend I will continue the search.

I found one shaded spot under a cover of scrubby pines that was about 20 minutes off the main path and there were dozens and dozens of blooms in an area about 50 square feet. I started counting and got into the 60s before I gave up. Upon closer inspection, I noticed that there was just as many cyps without flowers in the same spot. I'll return this weekend and see if I can snap a few pics.

- J

[fotofashion]

What a gorgeous show. I just hope the next person who happens upon them shows the same self-control you have.
Beverly A.