With its unusual flower shape, striking colours and a name you may not know how to pronounce, the Paphiopedilum is an orchid that stands out from the crowd. Thanks to its slipper-shaped lip, it is also known as the slipper orchid. This orchid is mainly available in autumn and winter, making it perfect for brightening up the darker days. But how do you care for a Paphiopedilum? And can you get this orchid to flower again? In this article, you’ll find everything you need to know about the Paphiopedilum.

 

Everything you want to know about the Paphiopedilum

You can recognise the Paphiopedilum immediately by its unusual flower shape. The lower petal forms a kind of slipper, which not only gives the orchid its distinctive nickname but also plays a role in pollination. The flower produces a scent that humans cannot detect, attracting flies into its pouch. Once inside the slippery pouch, there is only one way out: via a small ladder of hairs at the back of the lip, past the pollen and stigma.

The Paphiopedilum comes in a variety of colours and patterns. These include green, white, yellow, pink and brown, often combined with stripes, spots or distinctive markings.

 

 

A flowering period of 6–10 weeks

The Paphiopedilum is mainly available from October to March and has an average flowering period of 6 – 10 weeks. The exact flowering period varies from plant to plant and depends partly on the care it receives and the conditions in which it grows. Some varieties can even flower for longer!

Has your Paphiopedilum finished flowering? Don’t throw it away. You can cut the spent flower stem back as far as possible. The plant will produce new shoots, which can eventually develop into flowers. Bear in mind, however, that this takes time: a new shoot often needs around nine months to flower.

 

Caring for a Paphiopedilum

Here are a few tips for caring for your Paphiopedilum:

• Choose a bright spot. Place your Paphiopedilum somewhere light, but avoid direct sunlight. A spot with indirect light is ideal.
• Water once a week. Place the nursery pot in a shallow layer of water for around 10 minutes, allowing the roots to absorb moisture. Let the pot drain thoroughly before placing it back in its decorative pot.
• Keep the room temperature between 15°C and 25°C.
• Feed once a month. Use orchid fertiliser, but only half the amount recommended on the bottle.
• Avoid unnecessary repotting. Your Paphiopedilum does not need to be repotted regularly.

 

 

Can a Paphiopedilum be kept outdoors?

From April to October, you can place a Paphiopedilum outdoors, provided the temperature stays above 10°C. Choose a sheltered spot, such as a balcony or patio. Avoid strong afternoon sunlight and opt for a bright position with indirect light instead. It’s also best to protect the orchid from strong winds and prolonged exposure to rain.

 

Also read: How to create a tropical terrace with orchids