Hoe verzorg ik een Paphiopedilum (venusschoen)?
A Paphiopedilum is very similar to a Phalaenopsis. The leaves also grow in rows of 2. However, a very different flower grows from it and the leaves of this plant are often marbled or oblong. The lip of the flower of a Paphiopedilum is shaped like a slipper or calyx, which is why it is also called ladyslipper or slipper orchid. Its function is to better leave the pollen on another insect. Do you want to know the best way to care for a Paphiopedilum? Then read on soon!

Where can I place a Paphiopedilum in the room?

Most Paphiopedilums like a lot of indirect sunlight, but they don't like to be too close to the window. In addition, these orchids like to stand in bark just like a Phalaenopsis. Give the Paphiopedilum a spot with at least room temperature in summer. In winter, it may be a few degrees colder. 

Do not put the Paphiopedilum in full sun! Then the leaves will turn a yellow or burnt color and the plant will eventually die. If the days are getting shorter and you still want some more light for your plants in the room, then using a flower stimulating grow light is a good idea. This lamp is dim enough so that the leaves and flowers are not damaged.

When the night temperature is around 12-15 degrees Celsius in spring, flowering is better stimulated and there is a greater chance that more flower buds will open. Flowering sometimes does the Paph for over 2 months!

 

How should I place the Paphiopedilum water?

The Paph likes rainwater or at least water low in lime and minerals. So it is also possible to mix rainwater and osmosis water. Then accumulation of minerals is prevented. Especially if once a month orchid food is given. By the way, this is more than sufficient for this species. 

The Paphiopedilum does not like wet leaves. So when watering, it is better to submerge for 10 minutes or pour on the roots.Make sure that the Paphiopedilum does not like wet feet, as it does not like this.

Where can I get such a special Paphiopedilum?

Naturally, botanical Paphiopedilums grow in the rainforests of Indonesia, among others. But there are also cultivated species that one can obtain. You can adopt the most special Paphiopedilums at Plantique. These orchids are usually very rare and not for sale at any garden center, flower store or supermarket.

Regular orchids like the Paphiopedilum rothschildianum, Paphiopedilum delenatii, Paphiopedilum insigne, Paphiopedilum sanderianum and Paphiopedilum callosum are available in our greenhouse. Looking specifically for a particular specimen? If so, please let us know! We may be able to obtain that species for you. Mail us at customercare@claessenorchids.com

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