Lady's Slipper Orchid - Paphiopedilum - (formerly Cypripedium) 

The Slipper Orchids - so named because of the pendant 'pouch' which hangs from the main flower - are mainly ground dwelling or terrestrial orchids. This makes them suited to growing on pots.

This group of Orchids hail from areas of SE Asia and other tropical areas such as India and china. They have a wide range of habitats encompassing sea level areas right up to the peaks of mountainous terrain.

The Plant: Lady's Slipper Orchids - Paphiopedilum hybrids - make a stunning display with their large wing-like petals above a slipper-shaped lower lip, colours range from golden yellow through orange to brown, green and even purple. Many varieties are spotted or streaked with alternate colouring. 

A typical Lady's Slipper Orchid which is easily grown as a houseplant

Care of Slipper Orchids

Much depends upon the origin of the plant that you have, but all require >>>

Its Needs: Good light is required for Paphiopedilum hybrids but avoid direct sun. Maintain a winter temperature above 13C. Use an orchid compost which may have a little loam added.

Care: Water Paphiopedilum spp. weekly through the growing season, (using rain water if possible), but sparingly over winter. Feed using an orchid feed. Watch for mealy bug. Trim off yellowing foliage as necessary.

Good for: These Lady's Slipper orchids make a real display when in flower. An ideal gift, easy to maintain.

Problems with Slipper Orchids

The entire group are prone to the normal range of houseplant pests including Red Spider Mite, Mealybugs and assorted Aphids.

The good news being that they are rarely affected by any fungal or other diseases.

Propagation of Paphiopedilum

Lady's Slipper Orchids are not one of the orchid groups that can be divided. Propagation is normally restricted to carefully nurturing offshoots that appear from time to time.

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