Source: Wikimedia Commons
Sukhakul's Paphiopedilum
IntermediatePaphiopedilum sukhakulii
A slipper orchid found only in a small mountain area of north-eastern Thailand. Its green petals, dotted with dark spots, spread out horizontally, making a single flower up to 14 cm across. The leaves are mottled in light and dark green.
About
Paphiopedilum sukhakulii is a terrestrial slipper orchid described in 1965 and named after the Thai orchid collector Sukhakul. It is endemic to the Phu Luang mountains of Loei province in north-eastern Thailand, growing at 240-1,000 m along forest streams, rooted in sandy loam and leaf litter. It has about six narrow elliptic leaves mottled in light and dark green, grey-green with red dots beneath. It flowers from late winter to spring, bearing one flower up to 14 cm across on a stem about 25 cm tall. The dorsal sepal is white with green veins, and the petals spread almost horizontally, bright green with red-brown spots and densely hairy margins. At lower elevations it sometimes grows alongside P. callosum. With a single known location and heavy losses to collecting and forest destruction, it is regarded as critically threatened. In Japan it is sold by specialist orchid nurseries that carry Paphiopedilum species.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Size of the Sukhakul's Paphiopedilum
The Sukhakul's Paphiopedilum grows to Small; leaves up to 30 cm, flower stem about 25 cm, flowers up to 14 cm across.
Basic Info
Origin
North-eastern Thailand (Phu Luang mountains, Loei; 240-1,000 m)
Lifespan
Perennial that can be kept for many years by division (little data on lifespan)
Size
Small; leaves up to 30 cm, flower stem about 25 cm, flowers up to 14 cm across
Temperature
15〜30℃
Humidity
50〜70%
Watering & Fertilizer
Dilute liquid fertilizer in the growing season
Growing Tips
Light & Placement
It grows in dappled to moderate shade on the forest floor; keep it in bright shade out of direct sun.
Watering
It grows in moist streamside habitats, so water before the mix dries out.
Temperature & Overwintering
It is a warm to intermediate grower; keep it indoors somewhere warm in winter.
Soil & Repotting
It roots in sandy loam and leaf litter. Pot it in a free-draining yet moisture-retentive mix and repot after flowering.
Fertilizer
Feed dilute liquid fertilizer regularly in the growing season.
Pests & Cautions
As an Appendix I species, always check the registration certificate under the Act on Conservation of Endangered Species when acquiring a plant.
Sukhakul's Paphiopedilum FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Sukhakul's 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 Sukhakul's Paphiopedilum get?
The mature size of Sukhakul's Paphiopedilum is Small; leaves up to 30 cm, flower stem about 25 cm, flowers up to 14 cm across. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Sukhakul's Paphiopedilum?
Sukhakul's Paphiopedilum: watering & fertilizer — Dilute liquid fertilizer in the growing season. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Sukhakul's Paphiopedilum?
The price of Sukhakul's 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
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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