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Description
Paphiopedilum Wardii, also known as Ward’s Slipper Orchid, is a beautiful and exotic orchid species that belongs to the family Orchidaceae. This species is named after Charles Curtis Ward, who was an American orchid collector and businessman. Paphiopedilum Wardii is a terrestrial orchid that is native to the Guangdong and Guangxi provinces in China. It is a rare and endangered species that is highly valued by orchid collectors and enthusiasts for its unique and attractive appearance.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Paphiopedilum |
Appearance
Paphiopedilum Wardii is a stunning orchid species that grows up to 25 cm in height. It has a single stem and produces one or two flowers per stem. The flowers are large, round, and have a distinctive pouch-like structure that resembles a slipper. The petals are pale green to yellow-green in color, while the pouch is a deep maroon color with white stripes. The leaves of Paphiopedilum Wardii are dark green, glossy, and grow up to 30 cm in length.
Care Guide
To ensure that your Paphiopedilum Wardii thrives, you need to provide it with the right care. Here are some tips on how to care for your Ward’s Slipper Orchid:Water: Paphiopedilum Wardii prefers to be kept moist but not waterlogged. Water your orchid once a week during the growing season and reduce watering during the winter months.Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season to promote healthy growth and flowering.Soil: Paphiopedilum Wardii prefers a well-draining, slightly acidic soil mix. Use a mix of bark, perlite, and sphagnum moss.Sunlight: Paphiopedilum Wardii prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can cause the leaves to burn.Hardiness Zones: Paphiopedilum Wardii is a tropical orchid that is not frost-tolerant. It is best grown in USDA zones 10-12.
Common Pests & Diseases
Like all plants, Paphiopedilum Wardii is susceptible to pests and diseases. Here are some common ones to watch out for:Spider mites: These tiny pests suck the sap from the leaves, causing them to turn yellow and dry out. To control spider mites, spray your orchid with neem oil.Mealybugs: Mealybugs are white, cottony pests that feed on the sap of the plant. To control mealybugs, wipe your orchid with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.Root rot: Root rot is caused by overwatering and can lead to the death of your orchid. To prevent root rot, make sure your orchid is planted in a well-draining soil mix and water it only when the top inch of soil is dry.
Habitat
Paphiopedilum Wardii is native to the Guangdong and Guangxi provinces in China. It grows in the understory of tropical forests at elevations of up to 1000 meters. In its natural habitat, Paphiopedilum Wardii grows on rocks and in leaf litter.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Paphiopedilum Wardii a rare orchid species?
A: Yes, Paphiopedilum Wardii is a rare and endangered orchid species that is highly valued by orchid collectors and enthusiasts.Q: What is the best soil mix for Paphiopedilum Wardii?
A: Paphiopedilum Wardii prefers a well-draining, slightly acidic soil mix. Use a mix of bark, perlite, and sphagnum moss.Q: How often should I water my Paphiopedilum Wardii?
A: Water your Paphiopedilum Wardii once a week during the growing season and reduce watering during the winter months.Q: What is the hardiness zone for Paphiopedilum Wardii?
A: Paphiopedilum Wardii is best grown in USDA zones 10-12.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Paphiopedilum Wardii:- Paphiopedilum bellatulum- Paphiopedilum delenatii- Paphiopedilum insigne- Paphiopedilum niveum- Paphiopedilum venustum
References
– “Paphiopedilum Wardii.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=f315.- “Paphiopedilum Wardii.” Orchid Web, orchidweb.com/paphiopedilum-wardii.
