Paphiopedilum, the Asian lady's slipper, is one of the most robust collector's orchids. The waxy, glossy flowers with the characteristic shoe-shaped lip pouch last 6 to 10 weeks — commercially relevant for anyone who appreciates a long flowering period.
Current status according to IOSPE (Cribb 2015): around 100 recognized species in 5 sections. All Paphiopedilum are listed in CITES Appendix I — only artificially propagated specimens with proof are allowed in trade. Wild collections are prohibited worldwide.
Leaf coloration is the most important care indicator:
A Maudiae in a cool room stagnates, a P. insigne in summer heat dries out.
Partial shade — Paphiopedilum tolerates significantly less light than Cattleya. North or east window is optimal, south window only with shading. Direct sunlight leads to yellow leaf spots.
Unlike most other orchids, Paphiopedilum grow on the ground (terrestrial) — no pseudobulbs, no aerial roots in the classical sense. The plant stores little water and poorly tolerates drought.
The substrate should never dry out completely — Paphiopedilum is not drought-resistant. Keep evenly slightly moist, but avoid waterlogging.
One flower per shoot (except in the Cochlopetalum section). After flowering, the plant forms a new shoot with its own root mass, which blooms in the next season. If you want to divide Paphiopedilum, you should keep groups of shoots with at least 3 to 4 shoots.
The strictest protection category of the Washington Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species. All wild collections are prohibited. Only artificially propagated specimens with proof (certificate from the seller) are allowed in trade. When buying online, make sure the provider complies with CITES.
Maudiae hybrids — spotted-leaved, robust, bloom annually for 6 to 10 weeks. Easy care at room temperature.
Usually excess fertilizer or salt. Halve the fertilizer concentration, flush with rainwater, completely change the substrate at the next repotting.
In spring, before new root growth. Paphiopedilum roots are sensitive, the pot should fit as tightly as possible. Use a larger pot only if the old roots fill the entire interior.
Cypripedium is the hardy lady's slipper genus of the Northern Hemisphere — in the garden or forest, not in a pot. Paphiopedilum is the tropical indoor variant. The two genera are related but culturally completely different.
Green-leaved species 18 to 22 °C during the day, 14 to 17 °C at night. Spotted-leaved 20 to 26 °C during the day, 17 to 20 °C at night. A day/night difference of 4 to 6 °C supports flowering induction.
1 Valid for the first order. Your discount will be deducted automatically.