Pitcher Orchid. Photo credit: Randy Neufeldt

Cypripedium species are members of the orchid family. Most are native across much of North America and some parts of Europe. Also referred to as lady slippers, these interesting plants have only two leaves branching out from the center. The flower itself resembles a slipper or moccasin, which is what spawned its name. These dainty blooms (ranging from white, yellow and deep pink to nearly purple) remain tightly closed with exception to the small opening in the front.

Many of these plants are considered to be endangered in some areas due to over collecting from the wild. According to Indian lore, these plants were thought to induce dreams and were once used as a sedative. Unfortunately, they also happen to be a favorite food source for many insects and deer.

Collecting and transplanting from the wild is strongly discouraged both because of its rarity and low survival rate. However, various species are grown commercially and can be obtained for gardening purposes so growing a lady slipper wildflower in your own garden is possible.

Lady slippers prefer to grow within their natural environments – shady woodland areas. Interestingly enough, lady slippers require the aid of fungus in spreading their seeds, and a single plant can live up to 20 years or more if left alone.

By Nikki Phipps
Source: Planting Flower Bulbs

A puppy does not begin trying to walk until as early as 2 weeks and as late as 5 weeks old – They do not automatically know how to walk, they stumble and fall down just like toddlers do. Out of the 5 senses: touch, taste, smell, hearing and seeing, a puppy first experiences touch. At about 6 weeks old, a dam will start encouraging her pups to venture out and slowly become more independent. Source: The dog fact information center

The superior man thinks always of virtue; the common man thinks of comfort. ~Skipper Young

If you always care what people think about you, you will always be their prisoner. ~Unknown

Depression is the result of over thinking. The mind creates problems that didn’t even exist. ~Unknown

When you’re alone, you think. When you think, you remember. When you remember, you feel pain. ~Unknown

Just look within to the virtuous thoughts you have had, and you will always find a reason to love yourself. Take joy in your sincere intentions. Everything starts with an intention. If you have been able to have beautiful aspirations, these aspirations will always be part of you, a beautiful part. ~17th Karmapa

RFA/Men Sothyr