Paphiopedilum parishii is a true eccentric among slipper orchids. This particular species from Southeast Asia is known for its spectacularly twisted flower parts and multiple inflorescences. A must-have for any collector looking for something truly unique.
Paphiopedilum parishii occurs in the mountainous border region between Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Vietnam and southern China. The species grows there as a lithophyte or terrestrial in cool, moist forests, often on calcareous soils among humus and moss layers on slopes up to about 1,500 meters altitude.
What makes this species exceptional is its multi-flowered inflorescence with flowers that often have spectacularly twisted sepals and petals. The flowers are usually greenish with purple stripes and twisted, slender side leaves that sometimes have 15 cm long. The flower lip has the typical slipper shape, softly colored in cream with purple tones. The inflorescence often bears 3 to 5 flowers at a time, which is relatively rare within the genus.
The plant itself forms a compact rosette of gray-green leaves with subtle markings. The total height of the flowering stem can range from 20 to 40 cm.
Light, but without direct sunlight. Ideal is filtered east or west light. Too bright sunlight quickly leads to leaf burn.
This species desires moderate to cooler conditions:
An airy, moisture-retaining mixture based on fine tree bark with a small amount of sphagnum moss if necessary. Avoid coarse ingredients. Provide a stable, well-drained base.
Ideally, humidity should be 60-80%. A humidifier or regular spraying may be necessary during dry periods. In addition, provide light air movement (no drafts) to keep mold and bacteria from taking hold in a humid environment.
Always use demineralized water, possibly mixed clean rainwater, at room temperature. Keep the substrate slightly moist, but never wet. Allow the medium to dry out slightly between waterings before watering again.
During the growing season, lightly fertilize once every 2-3 weeks with a highly diluted high-quality orchid nutrient. In winter only at signs of growth.
Paphiopedilum parishii usually blooms in spring to early summer. Each mature shoot blooms once. New shoots develop rather slowly, but once mature, they are often vigorous enough for lush blooms.
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