Slipper Orchid
paphiopedilum acmodontum
Also known as: ["Acmodont Slipper Orchid","Slipperwort"]
Overview
A terrestrial orchid species native to Southeast Asia, known for its unique slipper-shaped flowers and intricate patterns.
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 acmodontum |
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":"18–28°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"11–12"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain humidity, especially in dry environments
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging and root rot.
- Soil Type: A well-draining mix of fine bark, sphagnum moss, perlite, and a small amount of charcoal.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or when dead/damaged foliage is observed.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning, removing only non-functional parts without altering the plant's structure.
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 light.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants to brighter light slowly over weeks to prevent leaf burn. 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
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; avoid wetting the foliage or crown to prevent rot; ensure thorough watering until water drains from the bottom.
Soil
well-draining orchid mix with peat moss and perlite
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–6.5).
Use orchid mix; ensure fast drainage; maintain slight acidity
Temperature
Ideal range: 60–80°F (15–27°C). Prefers cooler nights (55–65°F/13–18°C) to stimulate blooming. Avoid temperatures below 50°F (10°C) or above 85°F (29°C).
Maintain stable temps; provide cooler nights; protect from drafts
Fertilizing
every 2 weeks during active growth with diluted orchid fertilizer, none in winter
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize during active growth; flush soil periodically to prevent salt buildup
Propagation
Methods
Division of mature clumps is the primary method. Remove offsets (keiki) with at least two leaves and a healthy root system.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- 1. Remove parent plant from pot.
- 2. Gently separate offsets with roots.
- 3. Pot each offset in fresh medium.
- 4. Water lightly and maintain high humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing and has sufficient energy for recovery.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (70–80°F/21–27°C), and bright indirect light.
Medium
A mix of fine bark, sphagnum moss, and perlite for good aeration and moisture retention.
Hormone
Not typically required, but rooting hormone can be used to encourage faster root development.
Timeline
Offsets may take 6–12 months to establish and begin growing independently.
Tools Needed
Clean knife or scissors, pots, propagation medium, humidity dome or plastic bag
Quick Tips
Use sharp, 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, sharp scissors.
Pruning Plan
Focus on removing spent flower spikes and dead or damaged leaves to maintain plant health and aesthetics.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears
Checklist
Remove spent spikes; cut dead leaves; use clean tools; avoid over-pruning
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, just before the active growing season begins, to allow recovery before blooming.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider) than the current one, ensuring it has drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim dead roots, place in a pot with fresh medium, ensuring good drainage. Water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the potting medium breaks down (typically every 18–24 months). Necessary to refresh medium and provide space for root growth.
Checklist
Prepare new pot; trim roots if needed; use fresh medium; ensure drainage; water lightly
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 into the potting medium at the root zone, ensuring even moisture without waterlogging. Allow excess water to drain completely 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 in spring/summer, reducing to every 2–3 weeks in fall/winter. 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 mix for optimal aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis (yellowing leaves), bud drop, stunted growth, or leaf spots. Cold stress may cause water-soaked lesions, while heat stress leads to wilting or scorching.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow metabolic processes, reduce nutrient uptake, and increase susceptibility to root rot and fungal infections.
Solution: Move plants away from drafty windows or cold surfaces. Use a space heater or grow light to maintain optimal temperatures. Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal growth.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat accelerates water loss, causes leaf scorch, and may lead to dehydration or wilting, especially if humidity is low.
Solution: Provide shade during peak sun hours, increase humidity with a pebble tray or mister, and water more frequently to compensate for rapid evaporation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid crown contact; flush periodically
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced (20-20-20) liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring/summer). Reduce or stop fertilizing in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicPaphiopedilum acmodontum is not known to be toxic to cats. It poses no significant health risks if ingested or handled.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Dogs
Non-toxicPaphiopedilum acmodontum is not known to be toxic to dogs. It poses no significant health risks if ingested or handled.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Humans
Non-toxicPaphiopedilum acmodontum 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 acmodontum?
A: Water when the medium is nearly dry, typically every 7–10 days, avoiding waterlogged conditions.
Q: Does this orchid require special lighting?
A: It thrives in bright, indirect light; avoid direct sunlight to prevent leaf burn.
Q: Can Paphiopedilum acmodontum be grown outdoors?
A: It is best suited for indoor cultivation due to its sensitivity to temperature fluctuations and humidity levels.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | bright, indirect light |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
