Calypso bulbosa

Calypso bulbosa

Calypso bulbosa flower close-up

Calypso bulbosa, commonly known as the fairy slipper or venus's slipper, is a perennial species of orchid found in undisturbed northern and montane forests. It is the only species currently classified in the genus Calypso.

Description

Calypso bulbosa is a small, delicate orchid that grows to a height of 10 to 20 cm. It is characterized by a single basal leaf and a solitary flower. The leaf is ovate, dark green, and can be up to 10 cm long. The flower is pink to purple, with a white lip that is often marked with darker purple spots and yellow markings.

Calypso bulbosa in its natural habitat

The flower's lip is slipper-shaped, which is a distinctive feature of this species. The plant relies on mycorrhizal fungi for nutrients, as it lacks the ability to photosynthesize effectively on its own.

Distribution and Habitat

Calypso bulbosa is found in the Northern Hemisphere, particularly in North America, Europe, and Asia. In North America, it is distributed from Alaska to California and across Canada to the northeastern United States. It prefers cool, moist, and shaded environments, often growing in coniferous forests.

Ecology

The fairy slipper is a deceptive orchid, as it does not produce nectar. It attracts pollinators, primarily bees, through visual mimicry and scent. The bees are lured by the flower's appearance and fragrance but receive no reward, a strategy known as pseudocopulation.

Calypso bulbosa with visible pseudobulb

Conservation

Calypso bulbosa is sensitive to habitat disturbance and is considered vulnerable in many areas. It is particularly susceptible to trampling and habitat destruction due to logging and recreational activities. Conservation efforts focus on protecting its natural habitat and minimizing human impact.

Varieties

There are several recognized varieties of Calypso bulbosa, including:

• Calypso bulbosa var. bulbosa - Found in Europe and Asia.
• Calypso bulbosa var. americana - Found in North America.
• Calypso bulbosa var. occidentalis - Found in western North America.

Calypso bulbosa var. occidentalis

Related pages

• Orchidaceae
• Mycorrhiza
• Pollination

Gallery

• 
  Calypso bulbosa in bloom
• 
  Illustration of Calypso bulbosa
• 
  Historical depiction of Calypso bulbosa
• 
  Curtis's botanical magazine illustration