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Phragmipediums
Phragmipediums, like paphiopedilums, are also known as slipper orchids. However, there is no slipper orchid alliance as appears within the other major orchid groups, because phragmipediums will not interbreed with similar-looking, related genera. This is surprising when we consider the similarity between the flowers, especially among the multi-flowered paphiopedilums. The plants resemble the paphiopedilums, with their large, tufted growths.
These are flattened and silvery white, with clearly visible, green-growing tips. They have a tendency to adhere to any surface with which they come into contact. In a greenhouse, they often attach themselves to the bench upon which they are growing.
Phragmipedium besseae, a plant with a flower of such brilliant red that it caused a sensation wherever it was seen. Its natural home was on the sheer rock faces of the inaccessible mountainous regions of Peru and Ecuador, and it was this precarious and impossible-to-reach habitat that kept the species under nature’s wraps for so long. Invisible from the ground, it was only discovered when spotted from a helicopter flying over the area on a plant-hunting expedition.
By the end of the 20th century, most of its former sites had been systematically stripped of these precious plants, which were quickly spread around the world. Today, this one plant has projected the genus to a high profile not previously enjoyed. Numerous red hybrids have resulted that are now at the forefront of all Phragmipedium breeding. We have yet to see the full potential this species is capable of reaching. The majority of hybrids raised using the red-flowered Phragmipedium besseae have predictably produced blooms in the red to orange range. These are largepouched, short-petalled, nicely balanced flowers, and are in sharp contrast to the species Phragmipedium caudatum and its old hybrid P. Grande, which possess extremely long, ribbon-like, twisting petals that reach down for 30cm (12in) or more.
When held horizontally by the petal tips, the flower stretches over 60cm (2ft), making this the largest orchid flower in the world. Phragmipediums become considerably large in their growth, and some of the modern hybrids raised from the species Phragmipedium longifolium produce extremely long, almost perpetually blooming flower spikes that go on for many months, even years, producing more blooms from an everextending tip. These large plants need plenty of headroom wherever they are grown. Their root system is similar to paphiopedilums, but more robust. The plants are at their best when allowed to reach their full potential and flowering ability, rather then being divided into small pieces.
Temperature for Phalaenopsis orchids is warm-growing (winter minimum 18C/65F with a rise during the day of 12C/20F). Grow in 10cm (4in) pais acoarse bark or Rockwool. Water and them throughout the year, but avoid waterlogging. High humidity is not necessary; placing plants on a humidity tray provides the appropriate level. Wipe the foliage with a damp cloth to clear of dust, but do not allow water to run down into the centre of the plant, where it can lead to rotting.