Cypripedium acaule in Cheesequake State Park, NJ
 

Yes, that is the name of the park. I have known that there are Cypripediums in the park for years, but not where they could be found. On Mothers Day somebody in the know took me to the right area.

In a mixed forest on sandy soil, they grow primarily in the conifer stands, but only in the brighter areas where the trees are not standing quite as close together. To minimize the risk of poaching, the two larges colonies are fenced in. However, this year the plants are doing well, and there were many seedlings and a few plants in bloom outside the fences as well.

Due to camera problems I went back on Monday, and looking around I discovered a 3rd colony, which has not been fenced. Most of the plants there are younger, so there were not that many in bloom, but it is encouraging to see them spreading.

Thanks for making the extra trip! Always better seen in-situ.

And what's with the park's name? At first glance, I read Chesapeake and double checked after the first sentence. :blushing:

:waving Cheesequake!

Cheesesteak, earthquake, Chesapeake, cheesecake all wrapped up in one. :)

The extra 't' removed.

According to Wikipedia: The name Cheesequake was derived from the Lenape Native American word Cheseh-oh-ke, meaning "upland"[12] or "upland village"

Very cool. C. acuale is also the only Cypripedium species I've found in my area. It's very abundant in 1 or 2 locations that I discovered -- literally what seems to be a field of them in the woods. Otherwise, I've spotted a few sparse populations here and there.

I also discovered a nice big, healthy, and dense population of them along the Blueridge parkway. Though, for the most part, I've only seen a few plants scattered along the trails in a handfull of spots.

It's a very pretty species for sure.

Beautiful! I would love to see orchids growing here and I understand there are several species native to Maryland. Thanks for sharing.

Wonderful, thanks for sharing.