AboutOrchids

An intimidating Latin name, Paphiopedilum venustum, threatens to distract from this beautiful Paph. Fortunately, that translates to the very pronounceable “Charming Lady Slipper.” The Latin for “Stunning Lady Slipper” might fit better, but perhaps that name was already taken. Indeed, “charming” seems an understatement for this wonderful species from the southern slopes of the Himalayas. It grows in the shade of dense bamboo jungles in northeastern India, Bangladesh, Bhutan, and Nepal.

Besides the name Charming Lady Slipper, it’s also known as the Snakeskin Orchid. That’s not inspired by the fascinating veins on the flower pouch, but by the blue and green patterning on the leaves. In the wild, it grows as a terrestrial, and enjoys the monsoon rains, which have just started in southern India. In cultivation, this orchid requires daily watering, and can handle cooler temps during winter dormancy. Several color variations exist. Along with yellow color forms, many have red and maroon hues.

Explore posts in the same categories: Dormancy, Growing, Intermediate Growers, Photos, Watering

This entry was posted on Saturday, June 4th, 2011 at 9:33 pm and is filed under Dormancy, Growing, Intermediate Growers, Photos, Watering.

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