Slipper Plant (Euphorbia Lomelii) is a beautiful slow-growing succulent that remains mostly leafless with tiny inconspicuous leaves. The plant got the botanical name “Euphorbia Lome” from the botanist, Mr. Lomeili, who discovered it in 1801. It has erect thick lime stems up to 0-5 inches (1.3cm) that rise to 3 feet (90cm) tall, which sometimes looks taller. I’m the shade arching or bending outwards under their weight.
As the plant slowly matures, it can reach up to 90cm (3ft) tall, with new stems emerging from the ground to form tight. During mid-summer, it produces orange-red slipper-shaped flowers which appear along the stem.
The Slipper plant succulents need intense light and must be planted where it gets sunlight. It also prefers a warm climate and can survive in zone 9a-11b, around -6.7°C (30°F). The Slipper plant is not only an eye-catching plant to observers; it can also attract Hummingbirds.
| Botanical Name | Euphorbia Lomeli |
| Common Name | Slipper plant, Lady slipper |
| Origin | The Sonoran desert of Baja California and Sonora Mexico |
| Family | Euphorbiaceae |
| Plant Type | Perennial |
| Leaves | Tiny with a narrow pointed spade shape. |
| Leaf Retention | Deciduous |
| Mature size | 3-6 ft tall, 2-3 ft wide |
| Bloom | Spring into fall |
| Exposure | Full sun |
| Soil type | Sandy, well-drained |
| Soil pH | Acidic, neutral, alkaline |
| Flower color | Red, orange, yellow |
| Fruit | Seed capsule |
| Native area | Central America |
| Toxicity | Toxic to pets |
| Wildlife | Attracts hummingbirds |
| Hardiness zones | 9-11 USA |
| Growth Rate | Slow |
Slipper Plant Care Guide
The Slipper plant is easy to care for and maintain. Though they require a little pampering to become established, and once they are, they become self-sufficient. The Slipper plant is succulent, which means it can store water in its leaves or stems and need very little water and regular sunlight.
They are also drought-tolerant and heat-tolerant and thrive in poor, dry soil. The plant grows well in containers and does not often have problems with pests and diseases.
1 . Light
The Slipper plant requires full sun to bloom. The more sun it receives, the more flowers it produces.
2. Soil
The Slipper plant is quite Hardy and not picky about its soil conditions or pH levels. It prefers draining soil with lots of permeability, meaning water will run right through the soil and out to the roots instead of pooling at the bottom of the pot.
In addition, the plant also prefers soil that has some “grit” in it. They are planted directly into the ground or in pots filled with sand.
3. Temperature and Humidity
The Slipper plant is heat-tolerant and can withstand scorching temperatures. It doesn’t require any specific temperature.
The plant is also tolerant of cold weather and can survive temperatures as low as 20° Fahrenheit. However, younger growth is damaged by freezing temperatures.
Low humidity levels, on the other hand, don’t stand as a problem for the slipper plant. Since the plants are drought-tolerant, they can survive in arid climates.
4. Water
The Slipper plant requires little or no water. The best way to know when the plant needs water is to conduct a soil test by feeling the soil with your finger. If it’s dry, then add water.
Although there are no rules on how many times to add water a week or month, make sure you add water when the soil is dry. However, when you water, use warm or hot tap water and not cold water because it can damage and kill the plants by shocking them.
Watering Tips
1 . Make sure you water the soil when dry. To know when the soil is dry, conduct a soil test by using your finger to check the soil for moisture. If it is dry, water thoroughly, and if you add too much water, ensure it drains through naturally. Though it could take days.
2. If you choose to water the plants more than once a week, keep in mind that the leaves will begin to rot if you overwater the plants, especially in warm climates where it is hot all year long.
5. Fertilizer
The Slipper plant consists of thick succulent leaves that store a lot of water. The plant can grow in soils with no drainage and survive just fine because it stores so much energy as part of its leaves.
If you choose to fertilize your plant, feed it once every few months and never during flowering. However, the main thing is not to feed them too much because they will begin to rot and lose their beauty.
6. Sunlight
The amount of sunlight your plant needs to bloom depends on your area. Online to know the weather and when the sun shines for most of the day.
The Slipper plant belongs to the family of Euphorbiaceae and the subfamily of Cypripedioideae. It is often grown outside in warm areas like Florida and can be placed indoors on a sunny windowsill all year long with little or no special care needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
1 . Do Hummingbirds Like Slipper Plants?
The Slipper plant is eye-catching to observers and attracts hummingbirds.
2. Is The Slipper Plant Poisonous?
The Slipper plant orchid is mildly toxic to dogs and people. It can cause skin dermatitis if touched and also causes irritation of the mouth if eaten.
3. Is The Slipper Plant Succulent?
Slipper plants are succulent, meaning they can store water in their leaves and stems, requiring little and regular sunlight.
4. How Tall Do Slipper Plants Get?
Slipper plants can grow up to 6 ft tall and produce short-lived red blooms.
5. How Long Do Slipper Orchids Flowers Get?
Slipper orchid flowers can last up to three months and can appear at any time of the year.
6. How Do You Get Slipper Orchids To Rebloom?
Slipper orchids can rebloom if you continue to water and fertilize. The new growth will spike and begin the blooming cycle again.