Lady Slipper Orchid Paphiopedilum purpuratum

13/08/2012

Paphiopedilum purpuratum (Lindl.) Stein 1892 is a terrestrial or lithophytic growing lady slipper orchid species, native to South-East China (Yunnan), North Myanmar (formerly Burma) and Vietnam.


In its natural habitat the plant grows at elevations from 1200 to 1500 meters in leaf litter, preferably in bamboo forests or on mossy cliffs. This environment is characterized by heavy monsoon rains in summer and drizzling rain during the rest of the year. The erect, single-flowered inflorescence of the small sized lady slipper orchid gets a length up to 20 cm. The showy, purple coloured flowers reach a size up to about 10 cm width. Flowering period: Summer. Paphiopedilum purpuratum lady slipper orchids require cool to intermediate temperatures, high humidity and a shady location. Paphiopedilum purpuratum orchids are protected by CITES Appendix I (threatened with extinction, trade only in exceptional circumstances).

Lady Slipper Orchid Paphiopedilum purpuratum
Flower Photography © Orchids Flowers.com
Image: Lady Slipper Orchid Paphiopedilum purpuratum

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