🌿 Paphiopedilum "Slipper Orchid" Care Sheet
Overview
Type: Terrestrial or semi-terrestrial orchid 🌱
Size: Compact to medium – 15–45 cm tall 📏
Bloom: Stunning pouch-shaped flowers 🥿 that can last 6–8 weeks 🌸
Perfect for: Windowsills, terrariums with airflow, or shaded patios 🪟
☀️ Light
Ideal: Bright, indirect light 🌞
East-facing window is perfect in SA 🇿🇦
North-facing with sheer curtain works too
Avoid: Harsh midday sun 🔥 (burn risk)
Tip: Leaves should be light green – dark = too little light 🌑
🌡️ Temperature & Humidity
Day: 18–26°C 🌤️
Night: 15–20°C 🌙
Humidity: 50–70% 💧 (higher is fine with airflow)
Air movement: Essential to prevent rot 🍃
💧 Watering
Water: 1–2 times per week in warm months 🌞
Winter: Let top layer dry slightly between waterings ❄️
Use: Rain, RO, or distilled water 💧 (sensitive to salts)
Avoid: Letting roots sit in water – they hate soggy feet 🚫
🪴 Potting & Medium
Medium:
Fine-grade orchid bark 🌲
Perlite 🫧
Charcoal 🪨 for airflow
Repot: Every 1.5–2 years or when mix breaks down 🗓️
Pot: Snug fit encourages healthy roots and blooms 🪴
🍽️ Feeding
Growing season:
Balanced orchid fertilizer (¼–½ strength) every 2–3 weeks 🌱
Resting period (after bloom): Feed lightly or not at all 💤
Flush medium monthly to avoid salt build-up 🚿
🌱 Propagation
Done by division when plant has multiple healthy growths ✂️
Best time: During repotting 🗓️
⚠️ Common Issues
Problem 😬
Cause ❓
Fix 🛠️
Yellow leaves
Overwatering 💦
Let medium dry slightly between waterings
No blooms
Low light 🌑 or nutrient deficiency
Move to brighter spot + feed regularly
Leaf spots
Poor airflow 🫁
Improve air circulation
Root rot
Stagnant, soggy mix ⚠️
Repot into fresh, airy medium
🪟 Indoor & Display Suitability
Windowsills: ✅ Perfect for east or north-facing windows 🪟
Terrariums: ✅ If airflow is maintained 🌀
Patios/verandas: ✅ Shaded, protected areas only 🌿