Paphiopedilum Leanum Orchid - Venus Slipper

A primary hybrid (first generation) between the species P. insigne (seeds) and P. spicerianum (pollen), it is one of the classic taxa, recorded in Great Britain as early as 1884, when the orchid hybridization craze gained momentum.
Once very common in cultivation, today Paphiopedilum Leeanum is a rarer presence in the horticultural trade, which however seems to be tending towards a strong comeback. Although there is clearly no need to improve the original species in the case of Leeanum, since the hybrid inherited spectacular traits from both parents, the loss of the graphic pattern of the standard, compared to insigne, is compensated by the acquisition of a special form of it, a defining characteristic from the pollen donor parent, spicerianum.
Leeanum generally blooms in winter, and the vigorous flowers continue to delight the eye for several months or more. It does not require much light, and the ease of growing this species along with the size and color of the flowers make this horticultural taxon a favorite both among casual growers and experienced collectors.

Read the care guide for Paphiopedilum here.