Paphiopedilum charlesworthii
Charlesworth Paphiopedilum
Description
Source: leafsnapPaphiopedilum charlesworthii is a species of orchid native to the Himalayan regions of India, Nepal, and Bhutan. This terrestrial orchid thrives in the forest understory at elevations between 1,000 and 2,500 meters. It features a single stem adorned with several dark green leaves characterized by prominent veins. The flowers of Paphiopedilum charlesworthii are notably large and striking, with yellow-green petals speckled with maroon spots. The lip or pouch at the base of the flower is typically white or pale yellow, accented with maroon stripes. This plant thrives in cool temperatures ranging from 15-25°C during its growing season, which spans from spring to fall. It favors high humidity levels around 70-80%, though it can tolerate lower humidity if watered adequately. Propagation of Paphiopedilum charlesworthii can be achieved through division or seed sowing. However, it requires specific growing conditions, including well-draining soil mixtures containing bark chips or sphagnum moss. Due to excessive collection from its natural habitat for ornamental purposes, Paphiopedilum charlesworthii has been classified as an endangered species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Conservation efforts, such as habitat protection and cultivation programs, have been implemented to preserve this beautiful orchid for future generations.
Care Guide
💧 Water Every 7 days
☀️ Light Partial sun
Charlesworth paphiopedilum occurs naturally in settings like forest understories and rocky sites, where it grows in natural shade. It favors partial sun but can adjust to either full sun or full shade, reflecting its versatile and hardy nature.
🌡️ Temperature 20–37.8°C
Charlesworth paphiopedilum prefers warm conditions. It grows best at moderately high temperatures, but not in excessively hot, humid weather. Sunlight helps warm the plant and encourages flowering. However, extended direct sun in summer can cause sunburn, so the amount of light it gets should be limited during that season. The plant typically does not tolerate cold well, so it needs adequate protection and warmer temperatures in winter to prevent freezing.
💨 Humidity high (>60%)
This plant needs special care because it loves high humidity levels of 60-80% or more. The best way to achieve this is by placing a humidifier near the plant. Daily misting is also essential! Make sure the room has good ventilation.
🪴 Soil 6-7
🌱 Fertilizer
Charlesworth paphiopedilum needs the most fertilizer during its active growth period, which takes place mainly in spring, summer, and early fall. Fertilization supplies essential nutrients that the soil may lack, supporting healthy root and stem growth and enhancing the plant’s attractive foliage, a key characteristic of this species.
🪴 Pot & Repot
When repotting Charlesworth paphiopedilum, select a slightly larger pot with good drainage, preferably a clear orchid pot. Use a well-draining, orchid-specific potting mix that includes bark or moss. Carefully clean the roots and trim any that are dead or rotting. Repot after flowering, generally in spring or fall, water thoroughly, and keep in bright, indirect light. Avoid disturbing the roots after repotting.
✂️ Pruning
🌿 Propagating
🐛 Diseases & pets
☠️ Toxicity
Characteristics
- Plant Type
- Herb
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Paphiopedilum
- Family
- Orchidaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 10-11
- Mature Height
- 20 cm to 30 cm
- Mature Spread
- 15 cm to 25 cm
- Leaf Color
- Dark Green, Forest Green
- Leaf Type
- Evergreen
- Flower Color
- White, Pink, Purple
- Flower Size
- 7.62 cm to 10.16 cm
- Bloom Time
- Fall, Early winter, Mid winter
- Planting Time
- Spring, Summer, Autumn
- Harvest Time
- Late winter, Spring
- Native Area
- Myanmar, India, Thailand, China