About
Paphiopedilum micranthum is a small, semi-terrestrial, evergreen slipper orchid producing 3�5 oval-elliptic, leathery, dark-green leaves to 14 cm long, tessellated with pale green and spotted purple beneath. Solitary flowers to 10 cm across � remarkable for their large, inflated, round, usually white or pale-pink pouch � are produced on stems to 25 cm long in spring and summer. A distinctive and rewarding orchid for a warm to intermediate heated greenhouse.
About the genus
Paphiopedilum, the slipper orchids, are mainly terrestrial, lithophytic or epiphytic orchids lacking pseudobulbs, producing fans of strap-shaped, often mottled, leathery leaves. Each shoot terminates in a solitary flower or raceme of 2�8 flowers, each with a distinctive pouch-shaped lip. Grown in warm to intermediate heated greenhouses.
Growing conditions
SunlightPartial shade
Soil pHNeutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH1A
Plant details
Plant typeConservatory Greenhouse
HabitClump forming
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesHouseplants
Native toSW China
Care notes
CultivationGrow in terrestrial, bark based orchid mix, with added sphagnum moss and perlite, or crushed limestone chips. In summer, provide higher humidity and bright, filtered light. Average summer temperatures are between 20 - 25°C, with winter temperatures falling to 18 - 22°C. Apply fertiliser with every third watering. Avoid heavy misting or overhead watering. As the plant lacks pseudobulbs, it shouldn't be left dry for long time. Water plant as it approaches dryness, but avoid standing in water, or keeping wet for prolonged period. See Paphiopedilum cultivation for more detailed advice.
PruningNo pruning required.
PropagationPropagation 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 resistanceGenerally pest-free. May be susceptible to mealybugs.
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free. Overhead watering in combination with low temperatures may cause bacterial rots in the centre of leaf rosettes.