Paphiopedilum Little Trouble

A charming primary hybrid from the cross between Paph. barbigerum and Paph. charlesworthii, uniting the compact, neat growth habit of the former with the striking, broad dorsal sepal characteristic of the latter. The result is a compact slipper orchid of great personality — its playful name belying the elegance of its blooms and the ease with which it grows under intermediate-warm conditions.

• Light: Low to moderate indirect light under 60–70% shade cloth; avoid direct sun at all times to protect the strap-like foliage from scorching.
• Temperature: Intermediate to warm grower. Daytime 68–80°F (20–27°C), nighttime lows of 58–65°F (14–18°C); tolerates warmer conditions well thanks to the barbigerum influence.
• Humidity: Prefers 60–75% relative humidity; humidity trays or a humidifier with good air movement help prevent crown rot in the tight leaf axils.
• Watering: Keep the substrate evenly moist at all times; Paphiopedilums lack pseudobulbs and cannot tolerate prolonged drying — water before the mix dries out completely.

Additional Notes

Paph. barbigerum is native to southern China and northern Vietnam, while Paph. charlesworthii hails from Myanmar and India, both at mid elevations. Best grown in a fine to medium bark mix or perlite-sphagnum blend with excellent drainage; repot every 2 years when the substrate begins to break down.