no fear of a diminution in the numbers of Cypripedium lovers and growers, as 
these plants possess all the attractions to induce people of taste to commence their 
culture, 
The majority of Cypripediums grow freely and flower profusely, whilst their 
blooms last in full beauty for a long time, some six weeks or two months, or 
more. The plants do not occupy much space, unless grown into extra large 
Specimens, and they are easily increased by division, so that they may be looked 
upon as the veritable multum in parvo of the Orchid world. 
Our plate was prepared from a plant growing in the Victoria and Paradise 
Nurseries, but we must acknowledge we have seen it in better condition, as the 
flowers become larger when the plant is strong and vigorous, but when it is often 
cut and divided, as our plants naturally would be for stock purposes, it has the 
effect of reducing the size of the pouch-like lip. 
Cypripedium Williamsianum is a_ distinct hybrid with tessellated leaves ; 
it is free in habit of growth, as well as in the production of flowers. The 
Scape is some eight inches high, clothed with a profusion of short light brown 
hairs, and bears on the apex a_ single flower, which measures upwards of five 
inches across. Dorsal sepal oblong-acute, large, white, with prominent green nerves, 
and a blackish brown central band; petals oblong-acute, ciliate on both edges, and 
bearing numerous black dots, arranged in lines near the base, a small, dark, reddish- 
brown, median line along the upper side, and white with a coppery tint on the 
lower half; the veins are green, most conspicuous on the inferior portion; lip 
yellowish beneath, light brown above, with an ochre-coloured border. It blooms during 
the months of February and March, and continues for upwards of six weeks in 
perfection without any ill effects to the plant. 
This plant will thrive in a lower temperature than its parents, as we find 
the heat of the Cattleya house best suited to its requirements. It grows 
well in a mixture of rough fibrous peat and turfy loam, in _ about 
equal proportions.  Cypripediums all require thorough drainage, and they also 
require to be kept moist at the roots at all seasons of the year, in order to 
maintain them in vigorous health ; during active growth a liberal supply is necessary, 
and as it is a free-rooting variety a slight syringing overhead in summer will be 
highly beneficial, at which time also shading will be necessary when the sun is 
powerful. 
