Source: Wikimedia Commons
Paphiopedilum Delenatii
IntermediatePaphiopedilum delenatii
A Vietnamese Paphiopedilum with cute pink flowers and beautiful mottled leaves.
About
Paphiopedilum delenatii is a small lithophytic to terrestrial slipper orchid native to limestone hillsides in northern Vietnam. Plants grow 15–25 cm tall with attractively mottled leaves. Each stem bears one to two flowers, 5–8 cm across, in soft pink to white with a rounded, inflated pouch. The species is unusual among Paphiopedilum for its sweet fragrance. Flowering occurs mainly in spring (March–May). Wild populations have declined severely; cultivated plants are now widely available. Its charming flowers, mottled foliage, and fragrance make it one of the most popular introductory slipper orchids.
Lifespan of the Paphiopedilum Delenatii
The Paphiopedilum Delenatii lives 10+ years.
Size of the Paphiopedilum Delenatii
The Paphiopedilum Delenatii grows to 15-25cm.
Temperature & humidity for the Paphiopedilum Delenatii
The ideal temperature for the Paphiopedilum Delenatii is 18〜28℃.
Cultivation requires bright indirect light, temperatures of 18–28°C, and a moist but well-draining medium.
Basic Info
Origin
northern Vietnam, limestone mountains
Lifespan
10+ years
Size
15-25cm
Temperature
18〜28℃
Humidity
50〜70%
Growing Tips
Light & Placement
Place it in bright partial shade, out of direct sun. Indoors, grow it in light filtered through a sheer curtain.
Watering
Water to keep the medium evenly moist, taking care not to let it become waterlogged. Never let it dry out completely.
Temperature & Overwintering
The ideal range is 18-28°C. Keep it in a warm indoor spot so it does not drop below this range.
Soil & Repotting
Pot in sphagnum moss or fine bark. It grows naturally on limestone, so make sure the medium drains well.
Pests & Cautions
Watch out for overwatering. Water pooling in the leaf axils causes rot, so make sure none remains after watering.
Paphiopedilum Delenatii FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Paphiopedilum Delenatii?
Intermediate. A variety suitable for intermediate growers. Requires some cultivation experience and knowledge of environment management. Pay careful attention to temperature and humidity control.
QWhat is the ideal temperature for Paphiopedilum Delenatii?
The ideal temperature for Paphiopedilum Delenatii is 18〜28℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
QWhat is the lifespan of Paphiopedilum Delenatii?
The average lifespan of Paphiopedilum Delenatii is 10+ years. With proper cultivation environment and nutrient management, you can keep it healthy for a long time.
QHow large does Paphiopedilum Delenatii get?
The mature size of Paphiopedilum Delenatii is 15-25cm. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QWhat is the typical price for Paphiopedilum Delenatii?
The price of Paphiopedilum Delenatii varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: August 31, 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 delenatii Guillaumin
Synonyms: Cypripedium delenatii, Paphiopedilum delenatii f. lutescens, Paphiopedilum delenatii f. vinicolor, Paphiopedilum delenatii var. funingensis, Paphiopedilum delenatii f. albinum, Paphiopedilum xichouense
Authority databases: GBIF · POWO · RHS orchid hybrid registration (International Orchid Register) · AOS (American Orchid Society)
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Regulations & Conservation Status
All species of the genus Paphiopedilum and genus Phragmipedium are listed in CITES Appendix I. Hybrids (grex) are also subject to Appendix I regulation of parent species. Artificially propagated specimens may benefit from simplified trading procedures under the Appendices.
Sources: CITES Appendix I Orchid Checklist (Kew/UNEP-WCMC 2019): Paphiopedilum and Phragmipedium spp. / CITES Appendices (Orchidaceae spp. = Appendix II, some genera/species are Appendix I)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
Find listings for this species
Related Articles
Paphiopedilum Seasonal Management and Flowering Tips | Annual Blooms with Winter Cool Treatment
The key to making Paphiopedilum bloom every year is exposing it to cool temperatures around 10°C at night from November to February. This guide covers seasonal temperature, watering, and fertilization, the number of days from flower bud to blooming, reasons for poor blooming, and post-flower care.
How to Grow Paphiopedilum | The Charm of Terrestrial Orchids and Cultivation Tips
Explains how to grow Paphiopedilum (Paphio). Introduces the differences from epiphytic orchids, suitable potting media combinations, tips for shade cultivation, temperature-based variety classification, and winter cold management for flowering.
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A detailed explanation of Paphiopedilum's natural habitat and the optimal cultivation environment based on it.
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