{"product_id":"paphiopedilum-sukhakulii-alba","title":"Paphiopedilum sukhakulii Alba","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThis intriguing Venus slipper orchid is one of the better-known species within the genus Paphiopedilum, beloved for its distinctive leaf markings and unusual flower form. Paphiopedilum sukhakulii is native to the shady forests of Thailand, where it grows on humus-rich forest soils. Its unique appearance and relative compactness make it a popular species for lovers of unusual orchids.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003ch2\u003eOrigin\u003c\/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003ePaphiopedilum sukhakulii was officially described in 1969 and is native to northeastern Thailand. It grows there on moist soils in lowland forests, often on gently sloping terrain. In culture, this species is now widely distributed and also forms the basis for many popular hybrids.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003ch2\u003eCharacteristics\u003c\/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eWhat distinguishes this species is not only its beautiful flower, but also its leaves. The dark green, marbled leaves form a graceful rosette and remain decorative throughout the year. The flower usually appears solitary on a sturdy stem and has a striking slipper shape with contrasting colors: olive green, purple and white with striped and speckled patterns. The inflorescence is elegant, with a natural flair that is difficult to imitate in crosses.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003ch2\u003eCare\u003c\/h2\u003e \u003ch3\u003eLight\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eGive this orchid bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, especially in summer, to prevent leaf burn.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003ch3\u003eTemperature\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eThis species likes moderate temperatures: between 20-25 °C during the day, around 16-18 °C at night. Ensure sufficient temperature difference between day and night.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003ch3\u003eSubstrate\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eUse an aerated, well-draining substrate based on chopped bark with some sphagnum if necessary. Change the substrate every two to three years.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003ch3\u003eHumidity\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eA humidity between 60 and 80% is ideal. Regular misting or the use of a humidifier can help.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003ch3\u003eWatering\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eWater with demineralized water or clean rainwater as soon as the substrate feels almost dry, usually once or twice a week, depending on the season. Do not leave water in the leaf axils.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003ch3\u003eNutrition\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eUse a balanced orchid fertilizer in very dilute form (1\/4 of the recommended dose) once every two to three weeks during the growing period.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003ch3\u003eFlowering\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eFlowering usually occurs in spring or late summer, with a single flower per stem that can last up to six weeks. After flowering, no new flowering occurs from the same growth shoot, but new shoots develop at the base.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003ePaphiopedilum Sukhakulii. Since I have been cultivating Paphiopedilum for 28 years, I have never seen a Sukhakul bloom in this form, with side leaves almost 3 cm wide like this one. It is very rare. Beautiful shape, large flowers, wide side leaves stand out clearly.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Paphiopedilum","offers":[{"title":"10 cm \/ No","offer_id":57098156114293,"sku":"A-4RD-PAPHSUKN","price":364.95,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true},{"title":"10 cm \/ Yes","offer_id":57098156147061,"sku":"A-4RD-PAPHSUKJ","price":389.95,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0697\/7231\/2852\/files\/F6274FE9-0903-459A-ACAC-43B86AA9C913.jpg?v=1776975870","url":"https:\/\/orchids-shop.com\/products\/paphiopedilum-sukhakulii-alba","provider":"Claessen Orchids \u0026 Plants","version":"1.0","type":"link"}