Cypripedium calceolus can not be mixed up with any other species.

This gorgeous plant has wide sharp leaves furrowed by prominent nervures. The flower, of remarkable size is generally alone, or even double, exceptionnaly triple. The perianth is dark purple and sepals are fused and directed downward. The shoe-shaped lip, sharp yellow and brilliant is characteristic.

This orchid can be found in medium mountains in beech or firtree woods often in glades but rarely in full sunlight.

Flowering season lasts from May to July. This species is protected in France in the whole country.