Paphiopedilum dayanum

Paphiopedilum dayanum is a botanical orchid that immediately stands out for its delicate and graceful flowers. This species belongs to the group of "slipper orchids," named after the characteristic shape of the lip, reminiscent of a slipper. Because of its subtle beauty and botanical value, this orchid is loved by collectors worldwide.

Origin

This species is native to the cool, misty mountain forests of Borneo, Sumatra and the Malay Peninsula. There it grows as a terrestrial or lithophytic plant, often on humus-rich, moist forest soils or on shaded rocky slopes.

Characteristics

The flowers of Paphiopedilum dayanum are particularly ornate. They bear a white upper sepals with a sharply defined green stripe and deep purple to wine-red vertical stripes. The lateral sepals and petals are long and elegantly drooping, whitish-green with the same distinctive purplish-red stripes. The lip is brownish with a yellowish base; a refined contrast that gives the entire flower an elegant, almost graphic appearance. The inflorescence usually consists of a single flower per stem, sometimes two, and can bloom for weeks when properly cared for.

The foliage is long, narrow and gray-green, sometimes with slightly marbled markings. This species stays quite compact, making it suitable for smaller spaces or nurseries.

Care

Light

Give this plant bright, filtered light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can cause leaf burn.

Temperature

A cool to moderate temperature is appreciated. Between 18 and 24°C during the day, at night it may cool to 15°C.

Substrate

Use an airy mixture based on fine orchid bark with some sphagnum moss. Provide good drainage so that the roots do not remain constantly wet.

Humidity

A humidity of 60-80% is desirable. Daily misting or a humidifier can help with dry indoor air and hot days. In addition, ensure adequate but mild air movement against mold and bacteria.

Nutrition

During the growing season, give a diluted orchid fertilizer biweekly. Preferably use fertilizer suitable for calcium-sensitive species.

Watering

Never keep the substrate slightly moist for too long, but certainly never soaked for long. Preferably give demineralized water or clean rainwater. Tap water is not a fan of this species. Make sure the substrate dries slightly between waterings to prevent root rot. Higher humidity helps better against dehydration.

Flowering

Paphiopedilum dayanum usually blooms once a year, often in fall or winter. Flowering can last for several weeks. After flowering, a new shoot often develops next to the old one, which is a sign that the plant is thriving.