Overview
Paphiopedilum Actaeus gx 'Superbum' is a clump forming conservatory greenhouse in the genus Paphiopedilum, part of the Orchidaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Paphiopedilum Actaeus gx 'Superbum' grows best in partial shade, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H1A. Suggested uses include houseplants.
About
Paphiopedilum Actaeus gx 'Superbum' is a clump-forming evergreen orchid cultivar from the genus Paphiopedilum, known for its distinctive pouch-shaped flowers. Typically grown as a houseplant or in conservatory greenhouses, it thrives in partial shade with bright indirect light and requires a sheltered position. This cultivar prefers well-drained, neutral loam soil and should be kept evenly moist without drying out. Suitable for year-round interest, it is best cultivated in fine bark-based orchid compost at temperatures between 15-25°C. Propagation is mainly by division of mature plants, as seed propagation requires laboratory conditions.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Paphiopedilum
- Sunlight
- Partial shade
- Soil type
- Loam
- Soil pH
- Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- East-facing, South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H1A
Plant details
Paphiopedilum Actaeus gx 'Superbum' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Conservatory Greenhouse, Houseplants, Herbaceous Perennial
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Suggested uses
- Houseplants
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Paphiopedilum Actaeus gx 'Superbum'
- Propagation
- Propagation by seed is only possible in a controlled laboratory environment. Mature plants may be divided when the plant overgrows its container. Each division should have at least 3 healthy, rooted plant rosettes with a suffient amount of stored energy and water, to support new growth and reduce stress after repotting.
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free. May be susceptible to mealybugs.
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free. Overhead watering in combination with low temperatures may cause bacterial rots in the centre of leaf rosettes.
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Paphiopedilum Actaeus gx 'Superbum'?
Paphiopedilum Actaeus gx 'Superbum' prefers partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Paphiopedilum Actaeus gx 'Superbum' need?
Paphiopedilum Actaeus gx 'Superbum' grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
Is Paphiopedilum Actaeus gx 'Superbum' hardy in the UK?
Paphiopedilum Actaeus gx 'Superbum' has an RHS hardiness rating of H1a, meaning it needs tropical warmth above 15°C and must be grown under glass in the UK.
How do I propagate Paphiopedilum Actaeus gx 'Superbum'?
Propagation by seed is only possible in a controlled laboratory environment. Mature plants may be divided when the plant overgrows its container. Each division should have at least 3 healthy, rooted plant rosettes with a suffient amount of stored energy and water, to support new growth and reduce stress after repotting.
More in the Paphiopedilum genus
- Paphiopedilum purpuratum 'Tracy'

- Paphiopedilum Miller's Daughter gx 'Dimples'
- Paphiopedilum Sunwillow gx 'Ringlet'
- Paphiopedilum glaucophyllum var. moquettianum 'Winchester'