Paphiopedilum Micranthum | Orchidaceae

Description of Paphiopedilum micranthum

Description of Paphiopedilum micranthum

Paphiopedilum micranthum, also known as the Silver Slipper Orchid or Hard-Leaved Pocket Orchid, is a beautiful species of orchid native to southwestern Guanngxi, southern and southwestern Guizhou, and southeastern Yunnan provinces of China. It grows on steep limestone cliff faces and peaks of cloud forests, making it a unique and rare addition to any succulent collection.

The plant has 3-5 leaves that are 5-15 cm long, with mottled dark and pale green on top and purple-spotted underneath. The inflorescence is 1-flowered and 9-25 cm long, with a white flower that is 2-4 inches across. It blooms during late winter to early spring, making it a great addition to any winter garden.

Paphiopedilum micranthum is a terrestrial or lithophytic orchid that requires well-draining soil and moderate watering. It prefers bright, indirect light and temperatures between 60-80°F. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can burn the leaves and flowers.

This orchid is easy to care for and adds a unique touch to any garden. It is also a great choice for those who are new to orchid growing, as it is a hardy plant that can withstand a variety of conditions.

If you are looking to add a rare and beautiful orchid to your collection, Paphiopedilum micranthum is a great choice. With its stunning silver slipper-like flowers and unique growing requirements, it is sure to be a conversation starter in any garden.

Habitat and Distribution

Paphiopedilum micranthum, also known as the Silver Slipper Orchid or Hard-leaved Pocket Orchid, is a beautiful species of orchid that was first described in 1951. It is native to southwestern Guangxi, southern and southwestern Guizhou, and southeastern Yunnan provinces of China, where it grows on steep limestone cliff faces and peaks of cloud forests.

This orchid is a terrestrial or lithophytic plant that boasts charming flowers that are 2-4 inches across. The flowers bloom during late winter to early spring and are white with a yellow center. The petals are broad and rounded, while the lip is pouch-shaped and has a silver sheen.

The leaves of Paphiopedilum micranthum are hard and leathery, with a mottled dark and pale green color above and purple-spotted below. The inflorescence is 1-flowered, 9-25 cm long, and white in color.

This orchid is relatively easy to care for and can be grown in a pot or mounted on a piece of bark. It prefers bright, indirect light and should be watered when the potting mix is almost dry. It also requires high humidity, so it is recommended to place a tray of water near the plant or use a humidifier.

If you are looking for a unique and beautiful orchid to add to your collection, Paphiopedilum micranthum is definitely worth considering. Its stunning silver slipper-shaped flowers and hardy nature make it a great addition to any succulent or orchid garden.

Growing and Caring for Paphiopedilum micranthum

Paphiopedilum micranthum, also known as the Silver Slipper Orchid or Hard-leaved Pocket Orchid, is a species of terrestrial or lithophytic orchid that belongs to the Paphiopedilum genus. It was first described in 1951 and is native to southwestern Guangxi, southern and southwestern Guizhou, and southeastern Yunnan provinces of China. It grows on steep limestone cliff faces and peaks of cloud forests.

The plant has 3-5 leaves that are 5-15 cm long, above mottled dark and pale green, and below purple-spotted. The inflorescence is 1-flowered, 9-25 cm long, and white in color. The flowers are 2-4 inches across and bloom during late winter to early spring.

Paphiopedilum micranthum is a smaller sized orchid that requires warm to cool growing conditions. It prefers bright, indirect light and well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged and avoid over-fertilizing the plant.

This orchid is popular among collectors due to its unique appearance and ease of care. It is also used in hybridization to create new orchid varieties. The Paphiopedilum micranthum var. eburneum is a white form of the species that is also highly sought after.

If you are looking for a beautiful and low-maintenance orchid to add to your collection, Paphiopedilum micranthum is an excellent choice. Its stunning flowers and unique foliage will add a touch of elegance to any space.

Blooming Season and Flowers

Paphiopedilum micranthum, also known as the Silver Slipper Orchid or Hard-leaved Pocket Orchid, is a species of terrestrial or lithophytic orchid that belongs to the family Orchidaceae. It was first described in 1951 and is native to southwestern Guangxi, southern and southwestern Guizhou, and southeastern Yunnan provinces of China. It grows on steep limestone cliff faces and peaks of cloud forests.

The plant has 3-5 leaves that are 5-15 cm long, above mottled dark and pale green, and below purple-spotted. The inflorescence is 1-flowered, 9-25 cm long, and white in color. The flowers are 2-4 inches across and bloom during late winter to early spring.

Paphiopedilum micranthum is a smaller sized, warm to cool growing, single flowered species. It requires a well-draining potting mix that is rich in organic matter. It can be grown in a pot or mounted on a piece of bark or tree fern. It prefers bright, indirect light and high humidity levels. Watering should be done when the potting mix is almost dry, and fertilization should be done every two weeks during the growing season.

If you are looking for a beautiful and low-maintenance orchid to add to your collection, Paphiopedilum micranthum is an excellent choice. Its stunning flowers and unique foliage will add a touch of elegance to any space.