Most people orchids are tropical plants, and they are, but they’re certainly not limited to places with warm climates. I was surprised to learn in recent years that there are large numbers of orchids growing in colder and harsher climates. For example, there are 63 species of orchids native to Canada.
The Lady’s Slipper is one of the more lovely of the cold weather orchids. Generally each plant only produces a single flower whose bloom measures about 5 cm (2 inches) in length. It’s a spring-flowering plant that prefers a moister climate with acidic soil, and in Canada can be found from Newfoundland to Manitoba. The lady’s slipper is the Provincial Floral Emblem of Prince Edward’s Island. This one was discovered while on a hike in Quebec.
