Source: Wikimedia Commons
Primrose-yellow Paphiopedilum
IntermediatePaphiopedilum primulinum
A small terrestrial slipper orchid endemic to northern Sumatra. From clear green leaves rises a stem that opens sweetly scented, pale yellow flowers one after another from the bottom up, so it stays in bloom for a long time.
About
Paphiopedilum primulinum is a terrestrial slipper orchid described relatively recently, in 1973. It is endemic to northern Sumatra (southern Aceh), growing in humus on limestone hills at 400-1,000 m. The plant is small, with clear green leaves in two ranks. The flower stem, 10-30 cm long, opens pale yellow flowers about 4 cm across one at a time from the bottom upwards, and the flowers are sweetly scented. This sequential flowering, which keeps a single stem in bloom for a long time, makes it popular. It belongs to section Cochlopetalum and has at times been treated as a variety or form of P. victoria-regina or P. chamberlainianum. A purple-tinged form is known as f. purpurascens. In cultivation it needs bright light without strong direct sun, and water before the mix dries out. Wild populations are reported to be declining. In Japan it is sold by specialist orchid nurseries that carry Paphiopedilum species.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Size of the Primrose-yellow Paphiopedilum
The Primrose-yellow Paphiopedilum grows to Small; flower stem 10-30 cm, flowers about 4 cm across.
Basic Info
Origin
Northern Sumatra, Indonesia (limestone hills at 400-1,000 m)
Lifespan
Perennial that can be kept for many years by division (little data on lifespan)
Size
Small; flower stem 10-30 cm, flowers about 4 cm across
Temperature
15〜30℃
Humidity
50〜70%
Watering & Fertilizer
Dilute liquid fertilizer in the growing season
Growing Tips
Light & Placement
Give bright, indirect light and avoid strong direct sun.
Watering
Water before the potting mix dries out completely; avoid letting it dry hard.
Temperature & Overwintering
It comes from warm lowland to hill habitats and is grown warm to intermediate. Keep it indoors somewhere warm in winter.
Soil & Repotting
In the wild it grows in humus over limestone. Pot it in a free-draining yet moisture-retentive mix and divide after flowering.
Enjoying the Flowers
Flowers open one after another, so leave the stem in place while it is still green.
Pests & Cautions
As an Appendix I species, always check the registration certificate under the Act on Conservation of Endangered Species when acquiring a plant.
Primrose-yellow Paphiopedilum FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Primrose-yellow 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 Primrose-yellow Paphiopedilum get?
The mature size of Primrose-yellow Paphiopedilum is Small; flower stem 10-30 cm, flowers about 4 cm across. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Primrose-yellow Paphiopedilum?
Primrose-yellow Paphiopedilum: watering & fertilizer — Dilute liquid fertilizer in the growing season. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Primrose-yellow Paphiopedilum?
The price of Primrose-yellow 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 primulinum M.W.Wood & P.Taylor
Synonyms: Paphiopedilum chamberlainianum f. primulinum (M.W.Wood & P.Taylor) Fowlie, Paphiopedilum chamberlainianum var. primulinum (M.W.Wood & P.Taylor) Braem, Paphiopedilum liemianum var. primulinum (M.W.Wood & P.Taylor) K.Karas. & K.Saito, Paphiopedilum victoria-regina subsp. primulinum (M.W.Wood & P.Taylor) M.W.Wood
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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