Paphiopedilum hirsutissimum var. esquirolei frm. album

Introducing the Rare "Shaggy Paphiopedilum" - Paphiopedilum hirsutissimum var. esquirolei frm. album

Discover the extraordinary Paphiopedilum hirsutissimum var. esquirolei frm. album, a stunning and seldom-seen variation of this coveted orchid species. Cultivated with the utmost care, the parent plants selected for this unique variety boast exceptional vigor, displaying lush, clear green and white flowers on long, elegant stems.

Rare and captivating, these green blooms are certain to capture attention and become a focal point in any orchid collection. Our robust seedlings are thriving, making them a must-have addition for discerning Paphiopedilum enthusiasts. This particular variation is exceptionally scarce and distinctive due to its complete absence of stem and ovary hairs.

Native to the enchanting regions of Northeast India and Myanmar, the "Shaggy Paphiopedilum" can be found flourishing in semi-epiphytic conditions, often clinging to trees and thriving in a substrate of moss and detritus. To ensure vibrant spring flowering, provide a slightly cooler and drier winter period. During the summer months, encourage active growth with regular watering and liquid fertilizer.

Plant Description:

• Paphiopedilum hirsutissimum var. esquirolei frm. album is a medium-sized terrestrial or lithophytic orchid, growing up to 45 cm tall.
• Its leaves are 16-45 cm long and 1.5-3.0 cm wide, characterized by clear green coloration with purple spots beneath.
• Spring brings forth long-lasting, 12" (30 cm) inflorescences adorned with dense pubescence, showcasing green hues and dark purple hairs.
• The elliptic floral bract is approximately 1/4 the length of the ovary.
• Large, 10-15 cm tall flowers boast distinct upper sepals in pale yellow or green, adorned with dark black and purple patches, while lower sepals are smaller and feature pale green with purple specks.
• Petals are scapula-shaped, often twisted, with a base in green or pale yellow, embellished with dark purple specks and blackish hairs, leading to a bright-violet, rounded apex.
• The helmet-like lip varies in color from dark green to pale yellow, scattered with pink-purple specks and tiny black warts.

Cultivation Tips:

• Light: Provide a light level of 18000-25000 lux and ensure consistent air movement.
• Temperature: Maintain a warm summer temperature of 27-28 °C during the day and 20-21 °C at night. In winter, aim for 21-22 °C during the day and 4-7 °C at night.
• Humidity: Keep humidity at 80-85% in summer, gradually decreasing to 50% in late winter and early spring.
• Substrate: Choose a well-draining, moisture-retentive substrate to prevent mineral salt accumulation.
• Watering: Water generously in summer and early autumn, reducing watering gradually in the fall.
• Fertilizer: Weekly fertilization with 1/10-1/4 of the recommended orchid fertilizer dose, with a shift to high-phosphorus fertilizer in the second half of summer for better flowering.
• Rest Period and Repotting: Induce flowering by reducing water supply during the dry resting period in winter. Maintain a 4 °C temperature in December and refrain from watering for 30-40 days. Repot every two years, preferably after flowering, or during summer with proper acclimatization.

This is a blooming size in a 4" pot about 1 to 2 years to bloom, grown from seed, limited!

Embrace the allure of the rare "Shaggy Paphiopedilum" - a botanical treasure that will elevate your orchid collection to new heights of beauty and intrigue.