The class of hybrid _Cypripediums_ is becoming a numerous one, and some of the novelties are very distinct and beautiful, for although it may be difficult to beat the original types, yet in some cases they are superseded as regards colour, shape or form. We are greatly indebted to the Messrs. Veitch & Sons, of Chelsea, and others, for the good they have done in taking up the fertilisation of Orchids, and in raising the different forms which have appeared. The Lady’s Slippers are amongst the easiest of Orchids to fertilize, and the plants likewise take less time than any others of the family to attain the flowering stage. We trust the hydridisers will continue their good work, as there is yet such an abundance of choice materials to work upon, both as regards form and colour, and that by careful selection some wonderful changes may yet be wrought. We admit that a great deal has been accomplished, but there is yet a large field remaining unoccupied for those who feel disposed to take an interest in this most important and pleasing work. The class of Orchids to which our present subject belongs, is one of the most useful for the decoration of our Orchid houses and exhibition tables, as they are free growing and profuse blooming plants, the flowers being also of long duration. _Cypripedium calurum_ of which we now present our readers with a portrait is a continuous flowering variety, for as soon as one blossom dies off another appears, and so on until the spike has exhausted itself; and then when the new growths are made, fresh flower spikes appear, after the manner of _C. Sedenii_. It is a hybrid between _C. longifolium_ and _C. Sedenii_, the latter itself being a hybrid between _C. longifolium_ and _C. Schlimii_, and was raised by the Messrs. Veitch & Sons, of Chelsea, to whom we are indebted for the opportunity of preparing our drawing, and who have a most wonderful lot of these beautiful hybrid Cypripediums, some others of which we hope to figure in due time. _Cypripedium calurum_ is an evergreen species of graceful habit, with long arching bright green foliage. The flower spikes are branched, several flowers appearing at the same time. They are large and handsomely coloured, the dorsal sepal reddish-green striped with pale purplish-crimson, the petals also pale crimson darkening towards the tip to a rich crimson, and having one green vein down the centre; the exterior of the lip is deep crimson, the inside greenish white, spotted with dull purplish-crimson. Each flower lasts for several weeks in perfection.