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Around 60 species of Paphiopedilum orchids--commonly referred to as the Lady Slipper Orchid--exist. Countries like India and Asia have the highest prevalence of this orchid.
The Lady Slipper Orchid has a cup like lip and a dorsal sepal. They have a variety of colors. They can be seen growing in the ground, on rocks, and even in trees.
They can have one or more flowers bloom on a stem, but some can have up to six, depending on the species. Flowers measure 2 to 5 inches wide and last around 6 weeks. They need cool nights and low light; they are good for growth in the shade.
The Lady Slipper orchid does best with a feeding of 30-10-20 or 30-10-10 fertilizer (half strength) if in bark mulch beds (preferred).
The Paphiopedilum orchid needs at least 55 degrees F at night minimum if the species has green leaves, 60 to 65 degrees F if it's a mottled species. Moderate humidity is best. Indoor orchids do not need to be a window plant, and make sure they are cool and dry.
With the lack of a pseudobulb, the Lady Slipper Orchid needs regular watering. Keep the orchid moist but not wet, watering early in the day. Water the plant every 5 to 7 days.
T.M. Samuels has been a freelance writer since 1993. She has published works in "Arthritis Today," "Alabama Living" and "Mature Years," and is the author of a gardening book. Samuels studied pre-medicine at Berry College.
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