Paphiopedilum Orchids(“Paphs,” “Tropical Ladyslippers”)
Related to the native ladyslippers of our forests but eminently suited as houseplants are these exotic, long-lasting flowers with big pouches. Sophisticated blooms can boast spots, stripes and twists, in colors from red, green, yellow, pink, white, and almost black. There are two basic types: multifloral plants with green strap-like foliage need higher light; those with patterned leaves prefer warmer temperatures. Especially useful as they are happy in low light.
Light - Best in low to medium light in any window except north.
Temperature - Day - 70sº; Night - 65º F (patterned leaf), 55º F (green leaf).
Watering - Drench thoroughly, but never quite allow the plants to dry out between waterings.
Feeding - Give a light application of soluble orchid fertilizer once a week; flush with plain water once a month.
Potting Mix - Semiterrestrial orchid mix preferably in deep, narrow plastic pots.
Tips for Rebloom - Multiflorals keep successively blooming for months on the same spike, while patterned leaf types usually have one or two flowers per stem.
Don't forget: Paphiopedilums must be well-drained, so don't let them stand in water!
Written by Graham Rice