About Paphiopedilum
Paphiopedilum belongs to the orchid family and is native across tropical and subtropical Asia. Species grow among forest-floor debris, on rocky slopes or on trees, forming clumps of leathery leaf fans.
Types of Paphiopedilum
- Plain green leaves
- P. insigne
- Mottled leaves
- P. bellatulum; P. sukhakulii
- Multiple flowers
- P. rothschildianum; P. philippinense
Growing Paphiopedilum
General guidance for this genus. Individual species and cultivars can need different conditions.
- Light
- Mottled types: filtered. Multiflorals, e.g. P. rothschildianum: brighter.
- Night temperatures
- Cool-growing green-leaved types: 12–16°C. Warm-growing mottled types: ≥18°C.
- Humidity
- OSGB: 50–70%; gentle airflow.
- Water
- Surface nearly dry → water; never dry the rootball completely.
- Potting
- Small–medium orchid bark; replace when decomposing.