anthurium rothschildianum Paphiopedilum rothschildianum ''USA''

anthurium rothschildianum Paphiopedilum rothschildianum ''USA''This majestic orchid is one of the most impressive members of the Paphiopedilum section Coryopedilum, and is admired worldwide for its regal appearance. The 'USA' clone is known for its exceptionally large flowers with wide sepals and a powerful horizontal inflorescence a rare and coveted collector's item for the true enthusiast. Origin Paphiopedilum rothschildianum is an endemic species from the rainforest of Sabah on the island of Borneo. It grows

This majestic orchid is one of the most impressive members of the Paphiopedilum section Coryopedilum, and is admired worldwide for its regal appearance. The 'USA' clone is known for its exceptionally large flowers with wide sepals and a powerful horizontal inflorescence - a rare and coveted collector's item for the true enthusiast.

Origin

Paphiopedilum rothschildianum is an endemic species from the rainforest of Sabah on the island of Borneo. It grows there exclusively on limestone cliffs, often near waterfalls, where the humidity remains continuously high and the water is pure. The clone 'USA' originated in the United States from selective breeding and is internationally known for its spectacular flowering.

Characteristics

This orchid is a model of strength and elegance. The leaves are leathery and green with subtle markings, often up to 60 cm long. The flowering stalk can reach 50 cm high and usually bears 2 to 4 imposing flowers at a time. The flowers are up to 30 cm wide and have strikingly striped, horizontally extending sepals. The color is warm cream to yellow-green with deep red to burgundy stripes - classic for the species, but in 'USA' even more intense in hue. The flower lip is firm and bulbous, with a powerful, almost marble appearance.

Care

Light

Bright, filtered light is essential. Avoid direct midday sunlight, but do place the plant in a bright spot. An east- or west-facing window is ideal.

Temperature

This species prefers warmer conditions: between 20 and 28 °C during the day and no colder than 15 °C at night.

Substrate

Use an aerated mixture based on chopped bark and sphagnum. Provide a pot with adequate drainage.

Humidity

A humidity between 60 and 80% is desirable. Regular misting or use of a humidifier helps meet this need.

Nutrition

Give diluted orchid fertilizer (¼ strength) biweekly during the growing period. In winter, this may be reduced to once a month.

Watering

Preferably use demineralized water, possibly mixed with clean rainwater. But avoid tap water. Keep the substrate slightly moist at the bottom of the pot, but never soggy. Allow the pot to dry out slightly between waterings, especially during cooler periods the roots may be drier between waterings. Provide mild air flow (no drafts) to prevent rotting.

Bloom

Flowering usually occurs in spring to early summer. The flowering period lasts several weeks, during which the flowers are exceptionally long-lived. A mature plant in optimum condition can flower annually.