Nerve Root, Moccasin flower, Ladyslipper Orchid, Pink Lady's Slipper

Cypripedium acaule

Physical Characteristics

Cypripedium acaule is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.4 m (1ft 4in) at a slow rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5. It is in flower from May to June. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid and neutral soils and can grow in very acid soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland). It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

Eastern N. America - Nova Scotia to Nebraska, south to Mississippi and Alabama.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Shady Edge;

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal Uses

Antispasmodic Kidney Nervine Sedative Tonic Urinary The root is antispasmodic, nervine, sedative, tonic[207, 222]. It is said to be the equivalent of Valerian, Valeriana officinalis, in treating nervous complaints, sleeplessness etc[207]. The roots have also been used in the treatment of menstrual disorders, stomach aches, kidney and urinary tract disorders and venereal disease[257]. An infusion of the dried tuber is used, the tubers are harvested in the autumn[213]. The active ingredients are not water-soluble[222].

Known Hazards

Contact with the fresh plant can cause dermatitis in sensitive people[1, 21]. Hairs on the leaves can cause a rash similar to poison ivy rash in some people[213].