Phragmipedium

It’s a genus with 20 species, but a lot of hybrids.  Also known as “lady’s slippers” (from the New World), because of it’s similarities with the genus Paphiopedilum (Asian lady slippers).   They grow from Mexico to South America, between rocks, trees and some even submerged in water during the rainy seasons.

The most common flowering period is in Spring, however, some species flower up to 6 months, one flower after another.

They are endangered species because of the abusive unsustainable harvest form their natural habitat. All species form this genus have been categorized by the International Union for Conservation of Nature as likely to become extinct (Appendix 1).  To preserve these species, please make sure you’re buying hybrids. 

knowing your orchid:

general care:

WATER:  This genus enjoys being constantly humid, specially during the hotter months.  They must not dry completely between waterings.  It’s important to water them only in the mornings with room temperature water so that the leaves and new growths have time to dry before the temperature drops in the evening.  Excess water can be a focus of infection and can damage the plant.  The frequency of waterings will depend on your climate and the time of the year; waterings should be more frequent and abundant during the hot months and if your climate is dry, you may need to water up to 3 times a week, fertilizing only once a week. During the winter and in cold zones, the watering and the feedings can be spaced every 7 to 10 days to avoid root rot. It will also depend on the type of media you’re growing them in.

RELATIVE HUMIDITY:  

50% – 70%.  

If your HR is to high, it’s very important to have good ventilation to prevent diseases.  To increase your HR, please visit our post  “Tips to increase Relative Humidity“.

TEMPERATURE:

Día: 70ºC – 80ºC

Noche: 50ºC – 60ºC  

They handle well higher temperatures if the waterings are more frequent and the ventilation is very good. It’s ideal that there is a difference of 15ºF to 20ºF between day and night temperatures to promote new growths (leaves, stems and roots). If your temperature is higher that the ideal, you’ll have to increase the RH, airing and waterings, to avoid premature withering of the flowers and buds and the dehydration of your plant.

MEDIUM LIGHT: Using the Shadow Trick (see Basic Care: Light Issues section), the shadow from your hand should be light grey, not completely defined; if the shadow is darker, that spot is not for this orchid.  NEVER IN DIRECT SUNLIGHT!!  Ideal locations: east, south or west facing windows with a sheer curtain.

ARTIFICIAL LIGHT:  four tube 40 watt fluorescent fixtures placed 6″ to 12″ above the leaves for 10 to 12 hours a day.

These are the IDEAL conditions, however, orchids are more adaptable than we think!!  You’ll just have to put a bit more effort accommodating them in their new environment.  Look for tips in our Magazine!

to know more about nutrition, growing media and basic care, click below: