Philippine Slipper Orchid
paphiopedilum philippinense
Also known as: ["Philippine Lady's Slipper","Slipper Orchid"]
Overview
A rare and elegant orchid species native to the Philippines, known for its distinctive slipper-shaped pouch and long, curved petals.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Genus: | Paphiopedilum |
| Botanical Name: | Paphiopedilum philippinense |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: indoor pot with high humidity and good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"18–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"11–12"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days, especially in dry environments
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging and root rot.
- Soil Type: Orchid-specific mix with fine bark, sphagnum moss, and perlite 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, focusing on selective removal rather than heavy cutting.
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 higher light levels slowly over weeks to prevent leaf burn. Place in east-facing windows or under sheer curtains for filtered light. Outdoor placement should be in dappled shade.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
challengingmoderate
Sunlight
bright, indirect light
Avoid direct sun; provide filtered light; rotate plant 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; water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture without waterlogging; avoid wetting the leaves or crown to prevent rot.
Soil
well-draining orchid mix with bark and perlite
pH: Slightly acidic, pH 5.5–6.5.
Use orchid mix; ensure good drainage; maintain slightly acidic pH
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures, 60–80°F (15–27°C). Tolerates cooler nights down to 50°F (10°C) but avoids prolonged exposure to temperatures below 55°F (13°C).
Maintain moderate temps; protect from drafts; avoid extreme fluctuations
Fertilizing
every 2 weeks during active growth with diluted orchid fertilizer, none in winter
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize after watering to avoid salt buildup; flush roots occasionally with plain water.
Propagation
Methods
Division of mature clumps is the primary method. Mature plants often produce offshoots (keiki) 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.
- Provide warmth and humidity.
- Monitor for new growth.
Best Time: Spring or early summer, when the plant is actively growing and can recover quickly.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light. Maintain temperatures around 70–80°F (21–27°C) and humidity above 60%.
Medium
Fine orchid bark mix or sphagnum moss with perlite for good aeration and moisture retention.
Hormone
Not typically required, but rooting hormone can be used on cut ends to encourage root development.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; new growth can take several months to establish.
Tools Needed
Clean knife or shears, sterile potting medium, humidity dome or plastic bag, rooting hormone (optional).
Quick Tips
Ensure offshoots have roots; maintain high humidity; avoid overwatering; provide indirect light
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut flower spikes at the base once they turn yellow or brown. Trim damaged leaves just above the healthy tissue.
Pruning Plan
Focus on removing spent flowers and dead or damaged leaves to maintain plant health and aesthetics. Prune to encourage new growth and flowering.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; remove dead flowers; cut damaged leaves; clean up debris; monitor for new growth
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, just before the active growing season begins, allowing the plant to recover quickly.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by one standard size (e.g., from 4-inch to 6-inch pot) or 2–3 cm in diameter.
Method
Remove the plant gently, trim any dead roots, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh orchid mix, and ensure good drainage. Water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the medium breaks down and retains too much water. Necessary if roots outgrow the pot or if the plant becomes top-heavy.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh medium; trim old roots; position plant correctly; water lightly; provide proper care post-repotting
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; use appropriate water; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; avoid crown wetting
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly onto the root zone, allowing water to soak the medium evenly. Ensure excess water drains freely to prevent root rot. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry before nightfall.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 7–10 days during active growth; reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in winter or during dormancy. Adjust based on humidity and temperature.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate sphagnum moss for moisture retention; use orchid-specific fertilizer to enhance nutrient availability.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis (yellowing leaves), bud drop, slow growth, or leaf spotting can indicate temperature stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow metabolic processes, leading to stunted growth, leaf discoloration, and potential root damage.
Solution: Move the plant to a warmer location, away from drafty windows or cold surfaces. Use a space heater if necessary, ensuring consistent temperatures above 55°F (13°C).
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause wilting, leaf scorch, or dehydration, especially if combined with low humidity.
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity with a mister or humidifier, and ensure adequate watering to combat heat stress.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use orchid-specific fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize during active growth; flush periodically
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced orchid fertilizer (20-20-20) diluted to half strength every 2–4 weeks during active growth (spring and summer). Reduce or stop fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicPaphiopedilum philippinense is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no reported adverse effects from ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Dogs
Non-toxicPaphiopedilum philippinense is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no reported adverse effects from ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Humans
Non-toxicPaphiopedilum philippinense 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 philippinense?
A: Water thoroughly when the medium is nearly dry, typically every 7-10 days, depending on environmental conditions.
Q: Does this orchid require special lighting?
A: It thrives in bright, indirect light; avoid direct sunlight to prevent leaf burn.
Q: How do I encourage blooming?
A: Provide consistent temperatures, high humidity, and a slight drop in night temperatures to stimulate flowering.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Care: | challenging |
| Light: | bright, indirect light |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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