When asked for recommendations about an ‘easy to grow’ Paph species, Paphiopedilum delenatii is one of the first to come to mind. Its cheerful flowers are a staple at spring orchid shows around the world. Here in Northern California, they usually bloom in March and April. In colder areas they tend to bloom a little later. Along with not being too demanding it is also one of the few fragrant Paphiopedilum. The fragrance isn’t overpowering, but it is reminiscent of a rose garden.

This species originates from Southern China and Vietnam, where it grows as a terrestrial or sometimes as a lithophyte (on rocks). The ‘type’ form has attractive, mottled leaves and white flowers with a pink pouch. There are some clones that will produce two flowers per inflorescence, but most are singles. There is also an album form of the species, with lighter green mottled foliage and pure white flowers except for a yellow patch on the staminode. Perhaps the most striking variety of the species is Paphiopedilum delenatii v dunkel. This is also referred to as the vinicolor form. These plants have very dark mottled foliage, often with a darker margin along the edge of the leaves. The flowers tend to have some pigment in the petals and sepals and the pouch is deep red to burgundy. These two varieties usually have smaller leaves and flowers than the ‘type’ form, but selective breeding has brought in some vigor. Now it is possible to find album and dunkel plants that grow as easily as the regular ones, and the flowers are almost the same size too.

Paphiopedilum delenatii is usually a robust grower, with thicker roots than you might expect when grown well. Since these can be found growing on rocks, a well-drained potting medium is recommended. We use ‘classic’ grade Orchiata bark with #3 perlite for plants in pots up to 4″. Larger plants require slight larger bark and #4 perlite. Horticultural charcoal can be added as well. Our mix is about 30-35% perlite to allow for good drainage and air flow to the roots. Annual repotting into fresh media is recommended to keep the root system at its best. This species is from the Parvisepalum section of the genus. Many other Parvis are found on limestone in situ, but this species is not. Despite this fact it does benefit from calcium in its fertilizer like most other Paphs. A balanced fertilizer like the Michigan State University (MSU) formula is recommended. Monthly supplemental feedings of a Cal-Mag type fertilizer are beneficial through the growing season.

This species experiences a slightly drier season in the winter months. Since we usually have cooler, wetter weather here in the winter we naturally water less frequently so the plants get a bit of a rest. During the growing season we water once per week unless we have hotter weather, when we will provide supplemental water. With all Paphs it is important to flush the media very thoroughly when you water. This helps prevent mineral build up in the media that would burn the roots. Moderate light is ideal for this species, like an east window. If you find your plant doesn’t bloom for you it may need a bit more light. Although it is found at elevations up to 5000 feet, this species seems quite tolerant of warm summer temperatures. We grow with summer highs of 85 F on typical days and all the way up to 95 F during heat waves. Winter nights are 60 F but they will tolerate the low 50’s if they are kept on the dry side.

Overall, Paphiopedilum delenatii is a great addition to your orchid collection. The attractive foliage makes it interesting even when it is not in bloom. It is a reliable bloomer for displaying at spring orchid shows and the pleasant fragrance is a nice bonus. Blooming size plants are readily available and you can almost always find them in bud or bloom from vendors at spring shows.