(rothschildianum 'Giant Wings' GM/WOC × adductum var. anitum 'Ace' AM/AOS)
Paphiopedilum Wössner Black Wings 'Powderpuff' AM/AOS is a distinct multifloral hybrid within the genus Paphiopedilum and belongs to the Coryopedilum group. This cross combines the stately form and long flower segments of Paphiopedilum rothschildianum with the slimmer, contrasting influence of Paphiopedilum adductum. The result is a plant with a powerful appearance, long flowering stems and a striking line pattern in the flower.
What makes this particular clone interesting is that we often see in similar lines that the flowers turn out darker and more contrasting than expected, especially when the plant receives adequate light. At the same time, variation always remains within these hybrids, which is precisely what makes them attractive to collectors.
Origin
This hybrid is made up of two iconic species from Southeast Asia.
Paphiopedilum rothschildianum grows in Borneo on limestone slopes and is known for its long, horizontally extending petals and multifloral blooms.
Paphiopedilum adductum var. anitum is from the Philippines and contributes to its more slender flower shape and markings.
Both species grow in warm, moist forests with filtered light and good air circulation. In practice, this means that this hybrid performs best in a stable climate with adequate light and air movement.
Features
Paphiopedilum Wössner Black Wings forms sturdy rosettes with long, even green leaves. The plant grows relatively slowly, but over time develops into a vigorous bloomer.
Flowering appears on long, upright stems on which several flowers open in succession. What we often see with this type of cross:
- long, slightly twisted to horizontal petals
- clear markings in green, brown and deeper shades of red
- a flower structure strongly influenced by rothschildianum
In well-developed plants, the flowering period can be relatively long because the flowers do not all open at once.
Care
Light
This hybrid grows best in bright, indirect light.
We find that slightly more light often results in stronger colors and more compact growth, as long as burning is avoided.
Temperature
Ideal temperatures are between 18 and 28 °C.
Stable conditions produce significantly better growth than large fluctuations.
Substrate
Use an aerated orchid substrate based on fine to medium bark.
Good drainage is essential, especially given the limestone background of both parents.
Humidity
A humidity of 60 to 80 percent works most stably, combined with air movement.
Watering.
Keep the substrate slightly moist, but avoid keeping it wet for long periods of time.
Experience shows that this group is more sensitive to roots that are too wet than to a short dry spell.
Preferably use demineralized water.
Nutrition
During the growing period, a slightly diluted orchid food can be given regularly.
Flowering
When the plant reaches maturity, a long flowering stalk with several flowers develops.
Flowering can extend over a longer period as the flowers open one after the other, making this hybrid visually strong within a collection.
