Species Venus' slipper
Magenta-white flower with magenta-yellow center and black stem.

Venus' slipper

Paphiopedilum (group)

Venus' slipper, or the Paphiopedilum (group) plant species, is a stunning and exotic flower native to Southeast Asia and the Himalayas. It belongs to the orchid family and has a unique shape resembling a slipper or a pouch. The plant grows up to 30 cm tall and produces attractive, glossy green-petalled flowers with white, yellow or purple colorings. Its petals can take on a wide range of patterns and colors, many of which are said to resemble a figure in a gown, adding to its charm. With its low water requirements and easy to follow care instructions, the Venus' slipper is an enjoyable plant to have in any home.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Division,Stem Propagation,Leaf Cutting,Tissue Culture,Grafting Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

9 - 12

Flowers:

Yellow, white, pink, orange, brown, green, purple; many with spots, stripes and veins Flowers

Sun:

part sun/part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

bronze,green,yellow,olive,brown,maroon,tan,burgundy,black

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Moderate

Indoors:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

It is recommended to water Venus' Slipper plants once a week, using approximately 1-2 cups of water per plant. Depending on the size of the plant container, more or less water may be needed. If the soil mix is drying out then water more; if it feels wet, wait a few days before watering again. The water should be lukewarm and filtered. It is also important to ensure that the soil drains well, as standing water can easily result in root rot.

sunlight

Venus’ slipper prefers bright, indirect sunlight throughout the day, with approximately 4-6 hours of direct sunlight. For best results, place the plant in an east or west-facing window. During spring, summer, and fall, make sure that the plant gets enough bright light. During winter, however, a Venus’ slipper may do better with less light, as too much sun during the winter months may cause the plant to become stressed.

pruning

Paphiopedilum (Venus' slipper) plants should be pruned at least once a year, preferably in the early spring. Whenever flowers and/or old leaves start to yellow and wilt, it’s also a good idea to prune them off. Pruning for this particular plant species should be thorough but gentle; prune off any old, dead or dying foliage and flowers and thin out thick groupings of stems for better air circulation. Don't cut too heavily and avoid creating overly stark or bare patches. When you’re done pruning, apply a balanced fertilizer to the soil to help promote healthy growth.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Paphiopedilum (group) typically start flowering in late winter or early spring, usually between February and April.

Hardiness Map