Cypripedium Victoria (Lady's Slipper Orchid) is a deciduous, hardy orchid noted for its exceptionally large, egg-sized flowers. Blooming in late spring, the ravishing blossoms feature a cream to pale yellow pouch surrounded by twisted, burgundy-red to pale brown striped tepals. The sophisticated flowers are borne on upright stems above the bright green foliage of prominently veined ovate leaves. Victoria is an orchid hybrid from Germany's Werner Frosch that results from a cross between the North American Cypripedium parviflorum var. pubescens and the Asian Cypripedium fasciolatum. Its exceptionally large flowers and broad foliage make it a beautiful addition to the shade garden or patio containers.

• Grows up to 12-18 in. tall and wide (30-45 cm).
• Thrives in part shade (ideally with some morning sun) in moist, fertile, humus-rich, slightly alkaline, well-drained soils. Site in a sheltered location. Provide an annual winter mulch of leaf mold.
• Excellent choice for borders, city gardens, cottage gardens, underplanting shrubs and roses, and containers.
• Propagate by division in early or mid-spring and replant immediately. Some soil from the root ball, which contains beneficial fungi, should be planted with each division.
• No serious pest or disease issues. Keep an eye out for slugs and gray molds.