A New Slipper In The Garden

January brings us to a New Year (and a New Millennium) in the Orchid Garden. I am sure you will enjoy the wonderful discoveries to be found as we continue to explore the garden during this new year. I have many new and fascinating orchids and some surprises in store for you in the coming months. Without further a do, let's get started and see what I have found in the garden to start the new year.

In the orchid world, it is no surprise to find species of every exotic shape. But there is one that is not only exotic, it actually appears to be a copy of another very popular orchid. Many of you may be familiar with the "Slipper Orchid" Paphiopedium with their funny shoe-shaped lip. The new orchid I am going to tell you about is actually a relative of the Paphiopedium. This new "slipper orchid" is the Phragmipedium. Many times, they are often mistaken for Paphiopediums.

The blossoms of the Phragmipediums are what makes these orchids one of the top most wanted orchid in the hobbyist collections. Unlike the usual Paphiopedium, the petals of some of the Phragmipedium species such as the fantastic Phragmipedium wallisii and Phragmipedium audatum have blossom petals reaching lengths of over 32" (81 cm)! To be different, Phragmipedium lindenii has three petals rather than a slipper "pouch." Still others, such as Phragmipedium pearcei, have pretty twisted petals and a puffy-looking pouch. The newest species (discovered in 1981 in Peru), Phragmipedium besseae, has blossoms that are a brilliant fluorescent orange!

Many Phragmipediums produce blooms all year round or at least most of the year. Colors range from bright red, orange to deep purple, tans and greens. Phragmipediums are referred to as "New World Lady Slippers" because they are all naturally found in Mexico and throughout central and northern South America. They grow in many different areas and climates. Phragmipedium longifolium, pearcei, and klotscheyanum, for example, grow submerged during the rainy season in their area. You can find Phragmipedium caudatum high up in the trees while still other species can be found growing low on rocks.

The culture requirements for Phragmipediums are not really difficult and I am sure you can find one that will adapt to your growing environment. The following are general growing conditions. You should, however, always check the culture for your specific species to ensure you provide a happy home for it.

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