Story and Pictures by Dr. Yvonne D. Nelson Exactly What is an Orchid? Flowering plants with colorful, fragrant blooms called Orchidaceae, or orchid as they are more commonly known as, are native to the tropical regions of Asia and Australia where the climate is mild to hot and humid in the summer months. Founded in 1955, the Memphis Orchid Society (MOS) is full of experts who can answer this question and discuss the best heat and humidity levels for your special greenhouse growing orchids. This vibrant group of enthusiastic orchid growers meet for two hours at the Memphis Botanic Garden, 750 Cherry Road in Memphis, TN every fourth Sunday of the month beginning at 2 PM. The July meeting featured an auction and MOS member Alex Kumok’s presentation on Paphiopedilum orchids. Kumok’s presentation included discussions on temperatures, soil, light, humidity, air movement, and descriptions of several varieties of orchid’s and their level of difficulty for growing. Paphiopedilum orchids require a night temperature of 50-60 degrees Fahrenheit and a day temperature of 70-80 degrees Fahrenheit. They must be kept constantly moist or damp, but they will not survive in a “soggy” atmosphere. Growers must frequently check below the surface for dampness or dryness and normal watering intervals are between seven and 10 days. April is National Orchid month. “The Paphiopedilum thaianum is a new variety of orchid,” stated Kumok as he referred to the presentation page showing a picture of the “green to yellow” flowering plant. “They have long stems and flowers can be between 3 and 5 centimeters in diameter.” Kumok continued his presentation by providing general recommendations on the plant. The orchid’s characteristics include growth in shady rain forests, on steep slope elevations. Paph. thaianum, a native plant to Asia, grows on steep cliffs primarily composed of highly eroded limestone. Flowers generally bloom between early April and late May. Other species of Paphiopedilum orchids discussed by Kumok included the Paph. godefroyae, Paph. niveum, Paph. armeniacum, Paph. delenatii, Paph. emersonil, Paph. hangianum, Paph. malipoense, Paph. jackii, and Paph. malipoense. Kumok also mentioned that some varieties of the Paphiopedilum orchid are available online and they can also be found in some Sam’s Club stores. We wish you “Good growing and success” in your new or existing Paphiopedilum orchid hobby! 26
27 Publizr Home