Ram'S Head Lady'S Slipper
Cypripedium arietinum
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
4"–10" H × 2"–6" W
Bloom
May, Jun
Native to
CT, MA, ME, MI and 5 more states
Pollinators
bees
Ram's head lady's slipper is a rare native orchid that produces distinctive pouch-shaped flowers in May and June. This delicate woodland plant requires specific soil conditions and can be challenging to establish, making it best suited for experienced gardeners with naturalized shade gardens.
In an HOA neighborhood
Ram'S Head Lady'S Slipper takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: high. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Extremely uncommon appearance may seem inappropriate for maintained landscapes
- Goes completely dormant leaving bare spots in summer
- Very small size makes it nearly invisible in formal plantings
Wildlife value
Attracts specialized native bees that are adapted to pollinate orchid flowers. The unique flower structure requires specific pollinators for successful reproduction.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Ram'S Head Lady'S Slipper fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.