Slipper of Venus, an orchid with extraordinary flowers

Paphiopedilum callus 'Thailand'

Paphiopedilum callus ‘Thailand’

If there are elegant and tremendously decorative flowers, these are undoubtedly those of the Orchids. And they are very curious; so much that there are some that have animal shapes, but there are some that remind us of something we wear every day, like sneakers.

The orchid Venus Slips it is an extraordinary plant. It is ideal to have inside the home, as long as it has plenty of light and is protected from drafts. Next I will reveal all its secrets to you.

Paphiopedilum hennisianum

Paphiopedilum hennisianum

This curious orchid belongs to the botanical genus Paphiopedilum which comprises about 70 species, and is native to the tropical regions of Asia. Unlike Phalaenopsis, it is terrestrial, that is, it grows on the ground. Its flowers attract a lot of attention, and this is something that has put it in danger of extinction.

It has long green leaves, about 30cm long and about 3cm wide. The flowers are around 15cm and reaches a height of about 35-40cm.

Paphiopedilum insignia

Paphiopedilum insignia

Its cultivation is very simple, planting itself in a substrate composed of black peat, pine bark (soil for orchids) and sand in equal parts. To improve drainage, it is worth adding a first layer of volcanic clay; in this way, we will avoid waterlogging.

Irrigation has to be frequentthus keeping the soil semi-humid. Use lime-free water for this, such as rain or mineral water. During the flowering season you can pay it with a specific fertilizer for orchids, following the instructions specified on the package.

Although it is a very resistant plant, special care must be taken with excess watering, as they could cause fungal diseases. In the event that you see that its leaves begin to deteriorate, treat it with a broad spectrum fungicide and reduce the risks.

This beautiful orchid is very sensitive to cold and frost, but sure in your home it looks great .

Slipper of Venus, an orchid with extraordinary flowers

Leave a Reply

Scroll to top

Discover more from DIY Gardens

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Continue reading