Slipper Orchids, Venus Slipper Orchid, Lady Slipper Orchid, Paphs
Paphiopedilum orchids, often called Slipper Orchids or Venus Slippers, are celebrated for their unique, intricate patterns and varied colors, making them a favorite among orchid enthusiasts. The flowers are typically characterized by a pouch-like lip resembling a slipper. Resilient and easy to grow in the home, they are probably the easiest orchids to rebloom or at least to keep alive.
Native Range: Paphiopedilum orchids are native to a wide geographic range, including Southeast Asia, New Guinea, southern China, and India. About 80 species are commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions, thriving in humid, shaded environments such as forests and mountain slopes. Some species are endangered in the wild due to habitat loss and overcollection.
Plant Type and Habit: Paphiopedilum orchids primarily grow as terrestrial plants, though a few species are epiphytes, growing on trees, and some are lithophytes, growing on rocks. These orchids lack pseudobulbs and produce short stems with strap-shaped leathery leaves.
Size: Most grow to about 4 to 24 inches (10-60 cm) in height and spread.
Flowers: Each stem ends in a solitary flower or racemes of 2-8 blossoms, each with a distinctive slipper-shaped lip or pouch. The flowers exist in a myriad of colors and patterns, and many with fascinating spots, warts, stripes, and hairs, adding delightful features to their wonderful look.
Bloom Time: These orchids generally bloom once a year, with flowering periods varying by species. The bloom time can range from late winter to early spring or throughout the year, depending on the specific orchid and its growing conditions. The flowers can last up to three months.
Foliage: The foliage consists of leathery, broad leaves often mottled or striped.
Uses: Paphiopedilum orchids are primarily cultivated for ornamental purposes due to their striking flowers and unique appearance. They are popular as indoor plants and are often used in decorative arrangements. They are adaptable and perfect for beginner gardeners.
| Hardiness |
9 - 12 |
|---|---|
| Plant Type | Houseplants, Orchids |
| Plant Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Paphiopedilum |
| Exposure | Partial Sun |
| Height | 4" - 2' (10cm - 60cm) |
| Spread | 4" - 2' (10cm - 60cm) |
| Soil Drainage | Moist but Well-Drained |
| Characteristics | Showy |
| Landscaping Ideas | Patio And Containers |
Light
Paphiopedilum orchids thrive in low light conditions, reflecting their natural habitat on the forest floor. Place your Slipper Orchid in a shaded area during summer, avoiding direct sunlight, and move it to a brighter, unshaded spot in winter. An east or west-facing window or a shaded south-facing window works best.
Temperature
Paphiopedilum orchids are categorized into two groups based on temperature preferences:
Warm-growing types (mottled-leaved): Prefer night temperatures of 60-65ºF (15-18ºC) and daytime temperatures of 75-85ºF (23-29ºC).
Cool-growing types (green-leaved): Prefer night temperatures of 50-60ºF (10-15ºC) and daytime temperatures of 75-80ºF (23-26ºC).
Many growers successfully maintain a uniform temperature range.
Paphiopedilums can tolerate night temperatures in the 40s (4ºC) and daytime highs up to 95ºF (35ºC).
Water
Lacking water-retaining pseudobulbs, Paphiopedilum orchids need consistently moist but not soggy conditions. Water once or twice a week during spring and summer, allowing lukewarm water to flow through the pot and ensuring complete drainage. In winter, reduce watering but avoid letting the compost dry out entirely. Prevent water from accumulating in the crown to avoid rot.
Humidity
Maintain high humidity levels (40-50%) by placing the pot on a tray of damp pebbles. Avoid misting the plant, as it can lead to fungal issues.
Fertilization
Fertilize weekly with a high-nitrogen formula (e.g., 30-10-10) after watering. In warmer months, use half-strength applications biweekly or quarter-strength with each watering. Flush with clear water monthly to remove excess fertilizer. Reduce fertilization to once a month in winter.
Potting / Repotting
Repot Paphiopedilum orchids annually or biannually, or when the potting medium decomposes. Repot after flowering, using a pot 4-6 inches (10-15 cm) in diameter. Handle roots carefully to avoid breakage, and ensure the base of new growth contacts the medium for proper development.
Propagation
After flowering, divide large plants by separating the clumps of three to five growths.
Pests and Diseases
Paphiopedilum orchids are generally resistant to diseases but watch for pests such as aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites.
WindOfHope Shutterstock
| Hardiness |
9 - 12 |
|---|---|
| Plant Type | Houseplants, Orchids |
| Plant Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Paphiopedilum |
| Exposure | Partial Sun |
| Height | 4" - 2' (10cm - 60cm) |
| Spread | 4" - 2' (10cm - 60cm) |
| Soil Drainage | Moist but Well-Drained |
| Characteristics | Showy |
| Landscaping Ideas | Patio And Containers |
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Becoming a contributing member of Gardenia is easy and can be done in just a few minutes. If you provide us with your name, email address and the payment of a modest $25 annual membership fee, you will become a full member, enabling you to design and save up to 25 of your garden design ideas.
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