Slipper orchids belong to the Orchid Family (Orchidaceae), specifically the subfamily Cypripedioideae.
These orchids have evolved separately from other orchids so that the lip/labellum (the central, main part of the flower) has
formed a pouch or slipper shape. However, they share the same or similar sexual parts of other orchids (such as the column).
Slipper orchids grow around the world, and there are temperate and tropical genera. This section deals with the tropical species
and hybrids that I grow, which are members of the genera Paphiopedilum and Phragmipedium. I also grow the
sole species of the genus Mexipedium, Mexipedium xerophyticum, which is sometimes classified under Phragmipedium.
Differences Between Paphiopedilum and Phragmipedium
Paphiopedilum species (from now on abbreviated as Paphs) originate in southeast Asia. It is a very variable
genus, that is divided into several sections. These will be described later. However, most Paphs have very thick, often waxy
leaves and their flowers are mostly similar. Paphs can be minute or gargantuan in their size and their flower shapes also
vary tremendously. Phragmipedium speceis (from now on abbreviated as Phrags) originate in Central and South America.
Unlike Paphs, which usually have somewhat short, rounded leaves, Phrags have long, sword-shaped leaves. They also vary in
size and shape, but in general the flowers are more dainty and delicate than Paphs. This genus is also divided into several
sections.
Mexipedium
This is a monotypic genus, meaning it only has a single species, M. xerophyticum. Mexis are often grouped with
Phrags, but really they are different plants. Mexis come from desert-like areas in Mexico rather than the jungles that Phrags
grow in, and they have adapted to this environment with their thick, succulent leaves. They have tiny white flowers around
the size of a nickel. I will explain these in more depth later. There is also a subtropical genus from Central America called
Selenipedium, which I would like to grow, but cannot find any plants to buy. These look more like our temperate Cypripedium
species, which are examined on the next page.
Now for a look at the Paphs and Phrags that I grow:
(Under construction)
