Charlesworth's Lady's Slipper Orchid
paphiopedilum charlesworthii
Also known as: ["Charlesworth Slipper Orchid","Slipper Orchid"]
Overview
A terrestrial orchid species native to the Himalayan region, known for its distinctive slipper-shaped flowers and mottled leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","fragrant flowers","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Genus: | Paphiopedilum |
| Botanical Name: | Paphiopedilum charlesworthii |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: indoor pot with high humidity and stable temperatures
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–28°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"11–12"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days if ambient humidity is below 50%
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogged roots.
- Soil Type: Orchid-specific potting mix (bark, sphagnum moss, perlite, charcoal) for aeration and drainage.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or when dead/damaged foliage is present.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate, depending on the amount of dead or spent material.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch leaves. Adjust light exposure gradually if moving from low to bright conditions.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants to brighter light slowly over 1–2 weeks. Place in east-facing windows or under sheer curtains. Outdoor placement should be in dappled shade.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
bright indirect light, no direct sun
Avoid direct sun; use sheer curtains; rotate plant weekly for even growth
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing to every 2–3 weeks in winter
Use room-temperature, distilled, or rainwater; avoid wetting the leaves or crown to prevent rot; ensure thorough watering until water drains from the bottom.
Soil
well-draining orchid mix with peat and perlite
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–6.5).
Use orchid mix; ensure drainage; maintain slightly acidic pH
Temperature
Ideal range: 60–75°F (15–24°C). Prefers cooler nights (55–60°F/13–16°C) during winter. Avoid temperatures below 50°F (10°C) or above 85°F (29°C).
Maintain stable temps; avoid drafts; use humidifiers in dry heat
Fertilizing
every 2 weeks during active growth with diluted orchid fertilizer, none in winter
Dilute fertilizer to quarter strength; fertilize after watering; flush soil monthly to prevent salt buildup
Propagation
Methods
Division of mature clumps is the primary method. Mature plants often produce offshoots (keikis) that can be separated once they have 2–3 leaves and roots.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Separate offshoots with roots.
- Pot in appropriate medium.
- Water lightly.
- Maintain high humidity.
- Provide indirect light.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing and after flowering has ceased.
Environment
Warm (70–80°F/21–27°C), high humidity (60–80%), and bright indirect light. Protect from direct sun and drafts.
Medium
Fine orchid bark mix or sphagnum moss with perlite for aeration.
Hormone
Not typically required for division, but rooting hormone can be used for keikis to encourage root development.
Timeline
Division: immediate establishment if roots are healthy; keikis: 3–6 months to root and establish.
Tools Needed
Clean knife or shears, sterile potting medium, rooting hormone (optional), humidity dome or plastic bag
Quick Tips
Ensure offshoots have roots; use sterile tools; maintain humidity; avoid overwatering
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut flower spikes at the base once they turn yellow or brown. Trim dead leaves at the base with clean cuts.
Pruning Plan
Focus on removing spent flower spikes and dead or damaged leaves to maintain plant health and encourage new growth.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears
Checklist
Remove spent spikes; cut dead leaves; use clean tools; sanitize after use
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, just before the start of the growing season, after flowering has finished.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider in diameter) than the current one, ensuring it has drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim dead roots; place in a pot with fresh orchid mix; ensure good drainage; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the medium breaks down (usually every 18–24 months). Necessary if roots outgrow the pot or if the plant becomes top-heavy.
Checklist
Prepare new pot; remove old medium; trim roots; add fresh mix; water lightly; place in appropriate light
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; use appropriate water type; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; avoid crown wetting
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly onto the root zone, allowing water to saturate the medium but not pool. Ensure excess water drains freely to prevent root rot. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry before night.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 7–10 days during active growth (spring/summer) and reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in winter. Adjust based on humidity and temperature.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate sphagnum moss for water retention; use orchid-specific fertilizer to enhance nutrients.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis (yellowing leaves), bud drop, stunted growth, or leaf spots. Cold stress may cause blackened or water-soaked leaf tips.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow metabolic processes, reduce nutrient uptake, and increase susceptibility to root rot and fungal infections.
Solution: Move plant away from drafty windows or cold surfaces. Use a space heater or heat mat to maintain optimal temperatures. Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal growth.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause wilting, leaf burn, and dehydration, even if soil is moist. High temperatures may also disrupt flowering cycles.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase humidity with a mister or humidifier, and ensure adequate ventilation. Water more frequently but avoid overwatering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use orchid-specific fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize during growing season; flush periodically
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced orchid fertilizer (20-20-20) at quarter strength every 2–4 weeks during active growth. Reduce or stop fertilizing in winter. Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicPaphiopedilum charlesworthii is not known to be toxic to cats. It poses no significant health risks if ingested or handled.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Dogs
Non-toxicPaphiopedilum charlesworthii is not known to be toxic to dogs. It poses no significant health risks if ingested or handled.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Humans
Non-toxicPaphiopedilum charlesworthii is not known to have any toxic effects on humans. It is generally considered safe for handling and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Paphiopedilum charlesworthii?
A: Water when the medium is nearly dry, typically every 7–10 days, ensuring good drainage to prevent root rot.
Q: Does this orchid require special lighting?
A: It thrives in bright, indirect light; avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.
Q: Can I repot this orchid?
A: Repot every 2–3 years or when the medium decomposes, using a specialized orchid mix to maintain proper aeration.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | bright indirect light, no dire |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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