Paphiopedilum liemianum

Also known as: Liem's Paphiopedilum or Paphiopedilum victoria-regina ssp. liemianum Paphiopedilum chamberlainianum ssp. liemianum Paphiopedilum chamberlainianum var. liemianum in the subfamily: Cypripedioideae

General Information

Liem's Paphiopedilum is a warm to hot growing orchid belonging to the sub family Cypripedioideae. It is named after the Chinese Orchid Collector in Indonesia.

Plant Description

Grows to 50cm. Each new growth has numerous rigid elliptic, oblong shaped leaves that grow to 3-25cm long

Substrate(s)

• Coarse
• Spaghnum Moss

Climate

These orchids grow in cool climates, at low altitudes, in cool plains, forests or coastal scrub.

They are forgiving of humidity variances as long as temperatures are kept on the cool side. They can do well outdoors in the garden in cool and temperate areas, though it is important that they are protected from warm dry winds. They can enjoy morning sun especially in winter but will need protection from the hot sun in the afternoon and during summer. With some acclimatisation they may be able to receive more sun.

 

Grows at low to high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 173mm to 417mm per day, heaviest in November and lightest in June. Temperature ranges from 17C to 27C, highest in April (18C to 27C) and lowest in July (17C to 26C).

Watering

These orchids prefer a wet-dry cycle between waterings, they should be watered frequently but only when the moisture is approaching dryness, where the pot feels light and/or the media looks dry. Keep an eye on mounted orchids in warm weather as they may dehydrate quickly.

Fertiliser

These orchids do not need to be regularly fertilised and roots may be sensitive to salt build-up, dying back and therefore impairing the plants growth or even killing it.

If fertilising, use half to quarter of the recommended amount of fertiliser. If they receive fertiliser as part of a collection, be sure to flush out the pots regularly with fresh water and monitor the roots by checking how much resistance is given by the plant when nudged in its pot or mount. If the plant becomes wobbly or loose, repot in fresh mix or rinse the media/mount thoroughly and do not fertilise for at least 3 months.

Be sure to flush out excess fertiliser by running water through the media regularly year round. Use a high Nitrogen fertiliser year round. Use a high Phosphorous fertiliser year round.

Potting

Due to the growth nature of these plants they are best mounted onto cork, tree fern slabs, or even trees if the climate suits. Water regularly especially in hot weather.

This plant does well mounted. Repotting is best done annually.