Minnesota's Pink Orchids

The end of June is the usual time to find the Pink Orchids called Pink Lady Slippers in Itasca State Park.

I have always found it interesting that though there are miles and miles of trails in the park, the Lady Slippers miraculously show up at some very popular trail heads.

Could that just be a coincidence or is some DNR person "planting" them so that most people will be able to find them and enjoy them.

They are said to be quite rare, but I guess trail heads are the best spot they have decided to put on their show. 

They certainly are pink, and they look like a slipper. 

I always look forward to their blooming and have been out guessed as to when they are blooming, but not this year.  Here are some facts about them that are interesting.

• Adopted as the State flower in 1902
• Botanical Name: Cypripedium reginae
• Also known as: the Queen’s lady slipper and the showy lady’s slipper
• The lady’s slipper is uncommon in Minnesota
• Fun Fact: Some people can get a rash from touching the leaves of this pretty orchid
• In its first year, the orchid grows only about as tall as a pencil point!
• Each year the lady’s slipper may produce a half-million seeds, which are as fine as flour dust.
• With the pink and white lady slipper’s longer than average life span – some species may grow be 100 years old! 

My only wish is that they would last a wee bit longer.  But like many Spring flowers they are here for but a moment for us to enjoy.  Thanks to the wonder of photography I will be able to enjoy them anytime.