Paphiopedilum spp. – Mauve Slipper Orchid

An elegant and long-flowering slipper orchid, Paphiopedilum spp. are prized for their distinctive pouch-shaped flowers and architectural presence. This plant produces mauve-toned blooms with darker markings, often with subtle texture or hairiness along the petal edges, giving it a richly detailed, characterful appearance. Unlike many orchids, Paphiopedilums are terrestrial rather than epiphytic, making them more forgiving and well suited to indoor growing.

Scientific Name
Paphiopedilum spp. (slipper orchids; “spp.” indicates multiple possible species or hybrids within the genus)

Paphiopedilum is a genus within the Orchidaceae family comprising both true species and a wide range of natural and cultivated hybrids. Many plants in cultivation are seed-grown and may show mixed characteristics from different species or hybrid groups. As a result, further identification beyond Paphiopedilum spp. is often not reliable without breeder or parentage information.

Common Name
Slipper Orchid, Lady’s Slipper Orchid

Origin
Species and hybrids originate from Southeast Asia and surrounding regions, where Paphiopedilums grow terrestrially on forest floors in warm, humid conditions.

Light
Prefers bright, indirect light or light shade. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves. Foliage should be a healthy mid-green; very dark leaves may indicate insufficient light.

Water
Keep the compost evenly moist but not waterlogged. Allow the top layer of compost to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce watering a little in winter, but never allow the plant to dry out completely.

Humidity
Enjoys moderate to high humidity. Performs well in kitchens, bathrooms, or near a pebble tray. Avoid misting directly into the crown.

Soil
Use a specialist Paphiopedilum or fine orchid bark mix that retains some moisture while still draining freely. Repot every 1–2 years, ideally after flowering.

Food
Feed every 3–4 waters during the growing season with a diluted orchid fertiliser. Reduce feeding significantly in winter.

Temperature
Prefers intermediate conditions. Ideal temperature range is 15–24°C. Avoid temperatures below 12°C and protect from cold draughts.

Pet-safe
Non-toxic. Considered safe for pets and children.

Sprouts Top Tips
Consistency is key – steady light, watering, and temperature will give the best flowering results.

Extras
Each growth typically flowers once, but new shoots will develop at the base and produce future blooms.

Did You Know?
The pouch-shaped flower temporarily traps pollinating insects, guiding them past the pollen before releasing them – a clever natural adaptation unique to slipper orchids.