Description
Phragmipedium – Lady Slipper –
There are 15-20 species of large, evergreen, mainly terrestrial, occasionally lithophytic or epiphytic orchids from Southwestern Mexico and Central and South America, often found in between rocks or near rivers at low altitudes. They have robust, fleshy, clustered shoots with fibrous roots, but lack pseudobulbs. They produce leathery, strap shaped, often mid green, and arranged in two ranks and 8-12″ long. Upright stems, arising from the center of each shoot, bear on or 3 often brightly colored flowers in terminal racemes or panicles, some have very long petals, and each has a significant, slipper shaped lip.
Cool growing orchids (see chart below). Grow in epiphytic orchid potting mix in containers that restrict the roots. In summer provide bright filtered light and high humidity, and apply fertilizer at every third watering. Never allow it to dry out entirely but keep on the dry side in winter and provide full light, with some midday shade, and apply fertilizer every 6-8 weeks.
Prone to spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs.
