Hairy Venus Slipper (Paphiopedilum hirsutissimum)

Hairy Venus Slipper

Paphiopedilum hirsutissimum

Its fuzzy slipper blooms carry quiet exotic charm. Evergreen terrestrial orchid; common name: hairy slipper orchid.

Partial sun
1–2/week
Moderate
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Bright indirect light; avoid direct midday sun to prevent leaf scorch
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Watering Water thoroughly when top 2 cm of medium is dry; avoid waterlogging the rhizomes
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Temperature Best at 18–25°C; tolerate brief dips to 12°C but avoid frost
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Linear to lanceolate, dark green with pale green mottling on upper surface; hairy margins
  • Flower: Single large slipper-shaped bloom per inflorescence; pale green with brown-purple markings; densely hairy sepals
  • Stem: Short, rhizomatous basal stem with clustered leaves
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep medium evenly moist but not soggy

Fertilization

Diluted orchid fertilizer every 2 weeks. Use balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer to avoid burning delicate roots

Banana peel compost tea:Compost banana peels for 2–3 weeks; steep in water for 24 hours, dilute 1:20 for root drench; avoid raw peels to prevent pest infestations
Pruning
  • Remove spent flower spikes at the base to redirect energy to new leaf and root growth
  • Trim yellowing or damaged leaves at the base to maintain plant health
  • Groom dead, mushy roots during annual repotting to prevent rot
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic; no adverse effects expected from ingestion or contact

Humans: No known toxicity to humans; safe for handling and accidental ingestion

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: Symbolizes elegance and exotic beauty in formal floral arrangements

Usage: Ornamental potted plant; cut flower for special events and displays