Source: Wikimedia Commons
Callous Paphiopedilum
IntermediatePaphiopedilum callosum
A section Barbata slipper orchid from Indochina to the northern Malay Peninsula. It has leaves mottled in light and dark green and, from spring to early summer, bears one flower 8-11 cm across on a hairy purple stem.
About
Paphiopedilum callosum is a terrestrial slipper orchid in section Barbata. It was described in 1886 as Cypripedium callosum and moved to Paphiopedilum in 1892; the epithet means 'thick-skinned'. It ranges through Thailand, Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam to the northern Malay Peninsula, growing along streams in closed forest at roughly 300-1,300 m in deep leaf litter over granite and sandstone, and occasionally on mossy boulders. It has three to five leaves 10-20 cm long, mottled dark and pale green above and sometimes purple-flushed beneath. It flowers mainly from April to June, bearing one flower 8-11 cm across on a purple, hairy stem 12-25 cm tall. Several natural variants are recognised, including var. sublaeve. It is one of the classic mottled-leaf species and has been widely used in hybrids, but the species itself is considered somewhat difficult to grow. In Japan it is sold by specialist orchid nurseries that carry Paphiopedilum species.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Size of the Callous Paphiopedilum
The Callous Paphiopedilum grows to Leaves 10-20 cm; flower stem 12-25 cm; flowers 8-11 cm across.
Basic Info
Origin
Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam and the northern Malay Peninsula (forests at about 300-1,300 m)
Lifespan
Perennial that can be kept for many years by division (little data on lifespan)
Size
Leaves 10-20 cm; flower stem 12-25 cm; flowers 8-11 cm across
Temperature
15〜30℃
Humidity
50〜70%
Watering & Fertilizer
Dilute liquid fertilizer year round
Growing Tips
Light & Placement
It likes quite deep shade; keep it out of direct sun in bright to moderate shade.
Watering
Water evenly all year and keep humidity high.
Temperature & Overwintering
Mean temperatures in its habitat are about 19-24 °C. Keep it indoors somewhere warm in winter.
Soil & Repotting
In the wild it roots in deep leaf litter. Pot it in a mix that holds moisture yet stays airy, and repot after flowering.
Fertilizer
Feed dilute liquid fertilizer evenly year round.
Pests & Cautions
As an Appendix I species, always check the registration certificate under the Act on Conservation of Endangered Species when acquiring a plant.
Callous Paphiopedilum FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Callous Paphiopedilum?
Intermediate. A variety suitable for intermediate growers. Requires some cultivation experience and knowledge of environment management. Pay careful attention to temperature and humidity control.
QHow large does Callous Paphiopedilum get?
The mature size of Callous Paphiopedilum is Leaves 10-20 cm; flower stem 12-25 cm; flowers 8-11 cm across. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Callous Paphiopedilum?
Callous Paphiopedilum: watering & fertilizer — Dilute liquid fertilizer year round. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Callous Paphiopedilum?
The price of Callous Paphiopedilum varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: September 23, 2026
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: GrowerDirect Editorial Team
The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.
Taxonomy & Authority
Accepted name: Paphiopedilum callosum (Rchb.f.) Stein
Synonyms: Cordula callosa (Rchb.f.) Rolfe, Cypripedium callosum Rchb.f., Cypripedium callosum var. sublaeve Rchb.f., Paphiopedilum callosum (Rchb.f.) Pfitzer, Paphiopedilum callosum subsp. angustipetalum Guillaum., Paphiopedilum sublaeve (Rchb.f.) Fowlie
Authority databases: GBIF · GBIF
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Regulations & Conservation Status
All Paphiopedilum species are listed in CITES Appendix I (checked on Species+). They are therefore designated International Rare Species under Japan's Act on Conservation of Endangered Species, and transferring a plant within Japan (selling or giving it away) requires a registration certificate under the Act; plants propagated in Japan also need to be registered. When buying, always check that the plant comes with its registration certificate.
Sources: Species+ (CITES) / e-Gov: Enforcement Order of the Act on Conservation of Endangered Species (Appended Table 2) / Ministry of the Environment, Japan: regulation of transfers
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
Find listings for this species
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