About
A semi-terrestrial, clump-forming orchid species with green, narrow, oval-shaped leaves, 15-30 cm long and 3.5-6 cm wide. In the centre of each flower is a prominent white and purple flower column. The upper sepal is white with a dark purple stripe in the centre. Petals are short, pale green with a wavy edge. The lateral sepals are pale green and fused, mostly hidden behind the pouch. The pouch (or slipper) is a modification of the lip that traps insects and consequently provides an 'escape route' that results in pollen collection and flower pollination. Solitary flowers up to 7cm across bloom on an upright, 20-30 cm long flowering stem that appears from the centre of the leaf rosette.
About the genus
Paphiopedilum are mainly terrestrial, and lithophytic or epiphytic. They lack pseudobulbs and produce short stems with strap-shaped leathery leaves. Each shoot ends in a solitary flower or racemes of 2-8 flowers each with a distinctive variably-shaped lip or pouch
Growing conditions
SunlightPartial shade
Soil pHNeutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH1A
Plant details
Plant typeConservatory Greenhouse, Houseplants, Herbaceous Perennial
HabitClump forming
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesHouseplants
Native toIndia (Assam), S China, East Himalaya, Myanmar
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. Remove the flower stem after flowering.
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.