Members of the genus paphiopedilum are found in southern Asia, in habitats ranging from hot jungles to cool mountain peaks. They are semi-terrestrial, growing in rich humus and other material on the forest floor as well as on cliffs in pockets of humus and occasionally in trees. Much like the Phalaenopsis, these are considered the easiest Orchids to grow in the average home. Lady Slipper Orchids grow 10-30 cm (4-12”) high and bloom most abundantly in fall through spring. The truly unique flower occurs on a single, upright stem and is characterized by a prominent pouch (the“slipper”) flanked by two horizontal petals and crowned by a broad dorsal sepal that is often attractively striped or speckled. Although the size of the flower varies with the variety, many are 7-10 cm (3-4”) across. Each bloom lasts approximately 4-6 weeks, even as long as 3 months. Leaves are 15-20 cm (6-8”) long, strap like, leathery, and solid green or mottled.

Light

• Lady Slipper Orchids do not require high light levels.
• Choose an east or west-facing window or near a shaded south window. Direct midday sun will actually overheat the plant and scorch the leaves.
• Paphiopedilums also grow well under fluorescent lights.
• Ideally, place plants 15-30 cm (6-12”) below 2 or 4 tubes that are full spectrum for 12-14 hours a day.

Temperature

• Mottled-leaved Lady Slippers are the warm growing type and prefer 15-18°C (60-65°F) at night and 24- 29°C (75-85°F) or more during the day.
• The green-leaved varieties are the cool growing type so night temperatures should be around 10-15°C (50-60°F) with day temperatures around 24-27°C (75-80°F). In fact, they must have night time temperatures of 15°C (60°F) or less from mid-March to mid-June to set flowers.
• To protect plants from rot when it’s cold keep humidity low and avoid moisture on the leaves or in the crowns of the plants.
• In extreme heat, protect plants from burning by shading them more, increasing humidity and air movement around the plants.

Water

• Lady Slipper Orchids have no pseudobulbs that store moisture so water must be constantly available to the roots.
• All of these Orchids need a moist growing medium – never soggy, never dry.
• Water once or twice a week and keep in mind that over-watering can be fatal.