Phragmipedium orchids

Phragmipedium is the "New World slipper orchid", a genus of around thirty species native to Central and South America from Mexico down to Brazil. Plants are terrestrial or semi-terrestrial, producing clumps of narrow strappy leaves (without pseudobulbs) and tall flower spikes that carry one or more slipper-shaped flowers in sequence. Like Paphiopedilum, the lip forms a pouch that traps pollinators; unlike Paphiopedilum, many Phragmipedium species want their roots constantly wet rather than moist-to-dry.

The discovery of Phragmipedium besseae in Peru in 1981 transformed the genus's visibility. Its brilliant red flowers (unprecedented in the genus, which had previously been known for greens, browns, and muted purples) enabled a generation of red-flowered hybrids. Similar breakthroughs followed with Phragmipedium kovachii in 2002, which introduced enormous pink-purple flowers.

General care for the genus (species, hybrids and cultivars vary, so check with the grower for a specific plant): intermediate to warm temperatures (nights 16 to 20 °C), medium to bright indirect light (1,500 to 2,500 footcandles), 50 to 70 percent humidity. Many species want wet feet — the pot sits in a saucer of water an inch or two deep, with regular top-watering to flush. Medium bark with added perlite and sphagnum. Pure (rain or RO) water essential.

Species include Phragmipedium besseae, Phragmipedium kovachii, Phragmipedium caudatum, Phragmipedium longifolium, and Phragmipedium pearcei. Complex hybrids like Grande, Eric Young, and Jason Fischer are widely grown. Listings below come from the nurseries we index, most of them re-checked nightly; prices are shown in USD.