Introducing the Enchanting Primrose Yellow Paphiopedilum Orchid: Paphiopedilum primulinum var. 'In Charm'– A Splendid Rarity from Sumatra!
Discover the captivating allure of the Paphiopedilum primulinum var. 'In Charm', an exclusive beauty hailing from the lush landscapes of Sumatra, particularly the southern Aceh region. Flourishing at varying altitudes, this exquisite orchid thrives at 1000 meters above sea level near Blang Kejeren, and near Tapaktuan at 500 meters above sea level. Its natural habitat preferences are intriguingly diverse, with this species being equally at ease in shaded pockets and areas bathed in gentle sunlight.
Sequential Bloomer!
Known for its unique growth pattern and astonishingly extended blooming cycles, the Primrose Yellow Paphiopedilum is a standout favorite among orchid enthusiasts. Each flower spike hosts a mesmerizing sequence of blooms that delight the eye for months on end. The genus Paphiopedilum, also known as lady slipper orchids, showcases its distinctive pitcher-like flowers, a mimicry of carnivorous forms despite being non-carnivorous in nature. While tropical Paphiopedilums often thrive in the humid forest floor's subdued lighting, the Paphiopedilum primulinum var. 'In Charm' species stands apart, thriving with a preference for brighter light compared to its mottled-leaf counterparts.
Distinguished by its compact and charming demeanor, this particular cultivar boasts extraordinary neon yellow flowers with delightful, twisty, and hairy petals. The vivid burst of color it brings to any collection is truly spectacular. Notably, this sequential bloomer showcases its floral splendor for over a year on a single spike, making it a mesmerizing focal point.
Cultivating the Paphiopedilum primulinum var. 'In Charm' is an art that rewards with stunning displays. Here are the essential tips for nurturing this magnificent orchid:
Potting Mix: Employ a mix of coarse/fine bark and lava rock or specialized orchid bark. Repot during the spring season, either annually or every alternate year as the bark begins to break down. Take heed of the gradual acidification of bark over time, potentially harmful due to lowered pH levels. To counteract this, consider introducing crushed limestone to the media's surface, which aids in raising the pH. A pH range between 6.9 and 7.5 is optimal, preventing leaf yellowing linked to pH imbalances.
Light: Embrace bright-indirect to medium light conditions. North or East-facing locations are ideal, though South or West orientations are tolerable. Just ensure proper shielding to prevent direct sun exposure that can damage leaves.
Watering: Frequent watering during hotter months is crucial, especially when the media approaches dryness. Prevent it from reaching complete dryness to sustain healthy growth.
Temperature: The Paphiopedilum primulinum var. 'In Charm' thrives in an intermediate-warm climate, with minimum night temperatures around 50°F and maximum daytime temperatures around 85°F. Avoid exceeding 29°C during the day.
Humidity: Maintain humidity levels between 30% and 60%, accommodating the orchid's tolerance to lower humidity environments.
Fertilizing: Administer 1/4 strength urea-free fertilizer every 3 weeks to once a month, aligning with the emergence of new roots and leaves. Monthly flushing with water eliminates mineral buildup. In winter, reduce the strength to 1/4 or 1/8 to ensure balanced nutrition.
This small-sized terrestrial marvel showcases distichous, oblong-lanceolate leaves, clear green, and measuring 15-17 cm long by 2-4 cm wide, culminating in a tridenticulate apex.
The Paphiopedilum primulinum var. 'In Charm' takes center stage with its erect, green, and pubescent inflorescence, ranging from 10 to 30 cm long. The flowers, around 4 cm in diameter, open in succession, with the bottommost blossoms leading the floral procession throughout the summer months.
Light enthusiasts, the Paphiopedilum primulinum thrives on abundant luminosity, yet direct sun rays necessitate careful protection. A lux level of 20000-22000 and a photoperiod of 12-14 hours are the ideal conditions.
When it comes to temperature, the orchid relishes daytime temperatures between 20-25°C and nighttime temperatures of 16-18°C. While it can tolerate slightly higher temperatures, exceeding 29°C during the day should be avoided.
Creating a humidity haven is vital for potted cultivation, with an optimum range of 50-60%. In drier conditions, growth might stagnate or halt.
For a nurturing substrate, opt for medium-sized pine bark (2-3 cm) or a blend of pine bark (60%), coconut fiber (30%), and coconut flakes (10%). Maintain a pH of 6.9-7.5 to prevent leaf yellowing, repotting at least once a year to maintain substrate health.
Embrace the outdoors, but only during periods of mild temperatures above 15°C at night and 20°C during the day. Shield from direct sun and rain.
Master the art of watering, ensuring regular and generous hydration as the substrate approaches dryness but before complete desiccation.
Fertilize with finesse, every 3-4 waterings using 1/2 the recommended dose of orchid-specific liquid fertilizer. Preceding fertilization, ensure the orchid is well-watered to prevent root damage.
Stimulate blooming by orchestrating temperature variations of 3-4°C between day and night, accompanied by optimal lighting. Notably, winter watering requires less frequency due to slower substrate drying.
This is a blooming size in a 4” pot, about 1 to 2 years to bloom, grown from seed, limited!
Elevate your horticultural prowess with the Paphiopedilum primulinum var. 'In Charm' Orchid – an exquisite masterpiece from the heart of Sumatra's biodiversity.