Paphiopedilum barbatum (Bearded Paphiopedilum)

Paphiopedilum barbatum (Bearded Paphiopedilum) is an evergreen, tender orchid boasting striking burgundy flowers, 3-4 across (8-10 cm), with greenish-white sepals adorned with dark purple longitudinal stripes. Blooming in the spring, the flowers are borne usually singly (rarely 2) on upright stems. The attractive foliage of dark green mottled leaves, up to 6 in. long (15 cm), is narrowly elliptic and thin in texture. Native to north Sumatra and Peninsular Malaysia, Paphiopedilum barbatum grows in moist shady valleys on granite boulders covered with moss or on the ground in mossy and sandy or peaty areas at elevations of 2300-4200 ft. (700-1300 m). Paphiopedilum barbatum is an easy orchid to grow and bloom.

• Grows up to 12 in. tall (30 cm).
• Grows in an open medium in a shaded position in summer protected from direct sunlight but move to a bright, unshaded position in winter. An east or west window, or near a shaded south window are best.
• Needs a night temperature of 61-71°F (16-22°C) and a daytime temperature of 68-77°F (20-25°C).
• Maintain high humidity (50-70%) for most of the year by standing container in a tray of damp pebbles – do not mist.
• Water frequently in spring and summer. The substrate between waterings should dry well, but not dry completely. 
• Paphiopedilum barbatum needs a dormant period to stimulate flowering. During dormancy, night temperature should not exceed 59°F (15°C) and watering should be replaced with a light, clear spraying of the substrate.
• Feed once every two weeks in the spring and summer, once every 4 weeks in the fall and winter.
• When the blooms are finished, cut the spike down to the level of the leaves. Continue watering and fertilizing and within a year a new growth will spike to begin the blooming cycle again.
• When the plant has finished blooming is a good time to repot your orchid. Repot every year. Paphiopedilum orchids like to be tight in their pots. An average plant should have a 4-6 in. pot (10-15 cm).
• Large plants can be divided by pulling or cutting the fans of the leaves apart, into clumps of three to five growths.
• Generally disease free. Keep an eye out for aphids, glasshouse red spider mite and mealybugs.
• Native to north Sumatra and Peninsular Malaysia.

Tips for reblooming

• Check regularly if the plant is secure in its pot and the root system is sound. If not, repot.
• Try applying a blooming fertilizer in the early spring months.
• Move the orchid to a cooler, brighter location for a week, then return it to its original location.