Neotropical Slipper Orchids (Phragmipedium hybrid)
Phragmipedium is reported to include terrestrial, epiphytic, or lithophytic orchids, depending on the species.
Overview
Phragmipedium is reported to include terrestrial, epiphytic, or lithophytic orchids, depending on the species.
Origin and habitat
Phragmipedium is reported to occur in southwestern Mexico, Central America, and tropical South America. Depending on the species, it is reported to grow on the ground, on rocks, or on other plants, with at least some species occurring on moist, moss-covered slopes. Its reported range includes tropical South America.
Characteristics
Few-source information reports a mature height of about 80–80 cm. Leaves are reported to have pointed tips, with leaf shape and size varying among species and including linear or lance-shaped forms. Typical flowers are reported to have a large pouch-shaped lip with inward-curving margins, while some species have elongated, whisker-like petals; flower number on the flower stalk varies markedly among species.
Light
Phragmipedium is generally suited to medium light.
Watering
Phragmipedium is generally reported to prefer being kept evenly moist.
Growing medium and mounting
Sphagnum moss is generally reported as a preferred growing medium.
Identification
Phragmipedium is reported to have a shield-shaped staminode, a pouch-shaped lip, and a three-chambered ovary, with stems lacking pseudobulbs; some species have very long lateral petals.