Paphiopedilum Orchids

It’s late January – which means it’s time for me to start planning a trip up to Longwood Gardens to see their annual Orchid Extravaganza. And as I was figuring out when to go – I realized I have lots of orchids photos I’ve never shared with you. So I thought I’d start sharing them today – starting with some paphiopedilum orchids.

The Paphiopedilum orchids are frequently referred to as the slipper orchids due to the pouch which can look like a lady’s slipper. They are originally native to portions of Asia including India and much of Southest Asia. There are hundreds of types of paphiopedilum orchids – native, cultivated and hybrids. Usually when I see them at botanical gardens they aren’t identified by name – so most of photos are just labeled paphiopedilum orchid. If you happen to recognize any of them – I’d love to hear what variety they are.

Here are some of the paphiopedilum orchids I’ve photographed in recent years.