Paphiopedilum x Maudiae ‘Femme’ – Lady’s Slipper Orchid

An elegant and long-flowering orchid, Paphiopedilum Maudiae is prized for its beautifully patterned foliage and distinctive slipper-shaped blooms. This form produces white flowers with green striping, creating a fresh, crisp look that works beautifully in bright interiors. Unlike many orchids, it is terrestrial rather than epiphytic, making it more forgiving and well suited to indoor growing. The flowers are long-lasting and architectural, often remaining in bloom for several weeks.

Scientific Name
Paphiopedilum Maudiae (named after Maud, referencing the original hybrid group)

Paphiopedilum Maudiae is not a single species but a hybrid group (often written as Paphiopedilum × Maudiae), originally derived from species such as Paphiopedilum callosum and Paphiopedilum lawrenceanum. The vast majority of Maudiae-type Paphiopedilum orchids are grown from seed rather than cloned, meaning many plants produce very similar-looking offspring despite being genetically different. As a result, there is usually no reliable way to identify these hybrids beyond the Maudiae group.

Synonyms
Paphiopedilum Maudiae Group

Common Name
Lady’s Slipper Orchid, Slipper Orchid

Origin
Hybrid origin. Parent species are native to Southeast Asia, where they 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. Slightly brighter light can help encourage flowering, but foliage should remain a healthy mid-green.

Water
Keep the compost evenly moist but not waterlogged. Allow the top layer of compost to dry slightly between waterings. Water less frequently in winter, but do not 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
Ideal temperature range is 18–24°C. Avoid temperatures below 12°C and protect from cold draughts.

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

Sprouts Top Tips
If the leaves are very dark green, the plant may need a little more light; pale or yellowing leaves usually indicate too much sun.

Extras
Each growth flowers only once, but new shoots will form at the base and flower in future seasons.

Did You Know?
Paphiopedilum flowers use their slipper-shaped pouch to temporarily trap insects, ensuring pollination before releasing them.