Paphiopedilum henryanum

Description: 

• Family: Orchidaceae

• Origin: Native to China and Vietnam, usually found in shaded forest areas at elevations of 800–1,500 meters.

• Type: Terrestrial or lithophytic orchid (grows on the ground or on rocks with humus).

• Leaves: Dark green, strap-shaped, usually 4–8 leaves per plant. Some leaves may have subtle mottling depending on the variety.

• Flowers: Distinctive slipper-shaped flowers (hence “lady slipper”) with a greenish-yellow base and darker spots on the pouch and petals. Flowers typically bloom 1–2 per inflorescence, lasting several weeks.

• Blooming season: Late winter to spring.

Paphiopedilum henryanum is appreciated for its exotic, patterned flowers and relatively compact growth habit, making it suitable for indoor culture.

• Night: 55–65°F (13–18°C)

• Cooler nighttime temperatures help promote flowering.

Humidity

• Likes moderate to high humidity, ideally 50–70%.

• Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal infections.

• Humidity trays or regular misting can help in dry environments.

Watering

• Keep the medium evenly moist, but not soggy.

• Water thoroughly when the top of the medium feels dry.

• Avoid letting water sit in the crown or in poorly-draining pots.

Potting Medium

• Use a well-draining mix suitable for Paphiopedilums: fine bark, perlite, and peat moss or sphagnum moss.

• Repot every 1–2 years to refresh the medium.

Fertilization

• Use a balanced orchid fertilizer at quarter to half strength every 2–3 weeks during the growing season.

• Reduce feeding in winter when growth slows.

Flowering

• Inflorescences arise from the base of the plant.

• Flowers can last several weeks, and careful care can encourage rebloom the following year.

• Remove spent flowers carefully but leave the foliage intact.