Paphiopedilum spicerianum – Lady’s Slipper Orchid
A refined and elegant species of slipper orchid, Paphiopedilum spicerianum is prized for its distinctive white flowers marked with green striping and rich burgundy accents. The blooms are bold yet balanced, held above attractively mottled foliage on upright stems. Slower-growing and more seasonal than many hybrid Paphiopedilums, this species rewards patient care with striking, long-lasting flowers.
Scientific Name
Paphiopedilum spicerianum (named in honour of English botanist Henry Spicer)
A true species within the Paphiopedilum genus, part of the Orchidaceae family. Unlike Maudiae-type Paphiopedilums, this is not a hybrid or grex and can be reliably identified to species level.
Common Name
Lady’s Slipper Orchid, Spicer’s Slipper Orchid
Origin
Native to north-east India and parts of the eastern Himalayas, where it grows terrestrially in leaf litter on shaded forest floors.
Light
Prefers bright, indirect light or light shade. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves. Slightly brighter conditions in autumn can help initiate flowering.
Water
Keep the compost evenly moist but not waterlogged. Allow the top layer of compost to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce watering slightly in winter, but never allow the plant to dry out completely.
Humidity
Enjoys moderate to high humidity. Performs well in kitchens, bathrooms, or near a pebble tray. Avoid misting directly into the crown.
Soil
Use a specialist Paphiopedilum or fine orchid bark mix that retains some moisture while still draining freely. Repot every 1–2 years, ideally after flowering.
Food
Feed every 3–4 waters during the growing season with a diluted orchid fertiliser. Reduce feeding in winter.
Temperature
Prefers cooler conditions than many hybrid Paphiopedilums. Ideal temperature range is 15–22°C. Avoid temperatures below 10–12°C and protect from cold draughts.
Pet-safe
Non-toxic. Considered safe for pets and children.
Sprouts Top Tips
This species benefits from a slightly cooler period in autumn to help trigger flowering – avoid overly warm, stuffy rooms year-round.
Extras
Typically flowers in late autumn to winter, making it a valuable seasonal bloomer.
Did You Know?
Paphiopedilum spicerianum was one of the species used in the development of many early Paphiopedilum hybrids, including Maudiae-type orchids.
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Description
A refined and elegant species of slipper orchid, Paphiopedilum spicerianum is prized for its distinctive white flowers marked with green striping and rich burgundy accents. The blooms are bold yet balanced, held above attractively mottled foliage on upright stems. Slower-growing and more seasonal than many hybrid Paphiopedilums, this species rewards patient care with striking, long-lasting flowers.
Scientific Name
Paphiopedilum spicerianum (named in honour of English botanist Henry Spicer)
A true species within the Paphiopedilum genus, part of the Orchidaceae family. Unlike Maudiae-type Paphiopedilums, this is not a hybrid or grex and can be reliably identified to species level.
Common Name
Lady’s Slipper Orchid, Spicer’s Slipper Orchid
Origin
Native to north-east India and parts of the eastern Himalayas, where it grows terrestrially in leaf litter on shaded forest floors.
Light
Prefers bright, indirect light or light shade. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves. Slightly brighter conditions in autumn can help initiate flowering.
Water
Keep the compost evenly moist but not waterlogged. Allow the top layer of compost to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce watering slightly in winter, but never allow the plant to dry out completely.
Humidity
Enjoys moderate to high humidity. Performs well in kitchens, bathrooms, or near a pebble tray. Avoid misting directly into the crown.
Soil
Use a specialist Paphiopedilum or fine orchid bark mix that retains some moisture while still draining freely. Repot every 1–2 years, ideally after flowering.
Food
Feed every 3–4 waters during the growing season with a diluted orchid fertiliser. Reduce feeding in winter.
Temperature
Prefers cooler conditions than many hybrid Paphiopedilums. Ideal temperature range is 15–22°C. Avoid temperatures below 10–12°C and protect from cold draughts.
Pet-safe
Non-toxic. Considered safe for pets and children.
Sprouts Top Tips
This species benefits from a slightly cooler period in autumn to help trigger flowering – avoid overly warm, stuffy rooms year-round.
Extras
Typically flowers in late autumn to winter, making it a valuable seasonal bloomer.
Did You Know?
Paphiopedilum spicerianum was one of the species used in the development of many early Paphiopedilum hybrids, including Maudiae-type orchids.
