Paphiopedilums are part of the sub-familyCypripedioideae, orlady’s slipperfamily.
Here’s how to care for paphiopedilum orchid in your home.
Indirect light from an east-facing window is ideal.
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Note that paphiopedilums with mottled leaves require less light than those with solid green leaves.
Soil
Like other orchids, paphiopedilums don’t grow well in standard houseplant soil.
Water paphiopedilums one to two times per week, depending on the growing conditions in your space.
Plants in hot, dry climates tend to require more water than those in cooler, more humid climates.
If possible, water paphiopedilums with rainwater, distilled water, or even the water collectedin a dehumidifier.
Temperature and Humidity
Paphiopedilum orchids grow best with humidity in the 40% to 70% range.
Fertilizer
Feed your paphiopedilum orchid with a balanced orchid fertilizer diluted to one-quarter strength.
Fertilize once per week after you water the plant.
Cut away affected leaves with sterilized pruners at the base of the plant.
Specimens with multiple growths can be divided, but know that this process can damage the delicate root system.
Before you begin, gather fresh orchid mix, a small plant pot, and sterilized pruners or shears.
Potting and Repotting Paphiopedilum Orchid
Repot paphiopedilum orchids every two or three years.
Wait until flowering has concluded and you see new growth appear in spring before repotting the plant.
Overwatered plants may suffer from root rot, which is sparked by a fungal infection.
How Long Does Paphiopedilum Orchid Bloom?
Paphiopedilum orchids bloom annually and last for anywhere from three to eight weeks.
What Do Paphiopedilum Orchid Flowers Look and Smell Like?
Paphiopedilum orchids are renowned for their colorful, long-lasting blooms with the characteristic slipper-like pouch.
Flowers may be multicolored or solid-colored and come in a variety of shapes.
Many varieties don’t have a noticeable fragrance, but several species offer a sweet-smelling aroma.
How to Encourage More Blooms
Sufficient light is required for paphiopedilum orchids to bloom.
A few weeks of cooler temperatures can also help promote blooming.
If roots are healthy but leaves are yellow, a lack of fertilizer could be the issue.
Water plants more frequently to keep the roots from drying out.
Flowers Falling Off
Lack of water can cause paphiopedilum flowers and buds to suddenly drop.
Watering with cold water can cause the same issue.
Water frequently with tepid water.
Some types of paphiopedilum only bloom once per plant, with future flowers appearing on new growth.
Others, including mottled-leaf varieties, can bloom twice per year.
Depending on the jot down, paphiopedilum orchids require low to medium indirect light when grown indoors.
