This is the fabulous earth-growing orchid that is native to many parts of the country, with culture varying accordingly. The broad, long fresh leaves fold around the stem at the base. The flowers have a lip inflated into a pouch and are in various colors.
acaule—Northeastern native with dusty-pink flowers. Requires dry, sandy, woodsy, intensely acid soil, full shade. Difficult to transplant unless taken with a large amount of soil. Attempt it only after flowering, or in October. Don’t cover crown more than a half-inch. No good method of propagation is known.
calceolus pubescens—Fuzzy yellow lady-slipper from moist, wooded hillsides of the North and mid-South. Not difficult to transplant and easy to grow. Likes dappled shade and slightly acid, humusy soil.
candidum—Small white flowers marked and veined with brown and purple. From limy, marly bogs. Needs moisture and shade.
CARE. Soil, moisture, and shade as described above.
PROPAGATION. Division when dormant.
SPECIAL USES. Rock and wild gardens. Can force.
Dalibarda repens Rosaceae Dewdrop, False Violet
Precious little creeper, pretending to be a violet, with two-inch heart-shaped leaves on long stems and five-petaled, half-inch white flowers in July. A native of the Northeastern section.
CARE. A sheltered spot. Rich woodsy soil.