Paphiopedilum tigrinum

Paphiopedilum tigrinum is a rare Paphiopedilum species native to western Yunnan, China, and northeastern Myanmar. It grows at relatively high elevations, around 1,400–1,980 m, on rocky or mossy substrates in lightly shaded montane habitats.

The plant forms a compact clump of 4–6 leathery, strap-like green leaves. Its most striking feature is the large, single flower, which can reach approximately 8–12.7 cm across. The dorsal sepal is yellowish green with bold maroon longitudinal markings, while the petals combine green and rich purple-maroon coloration. The pouch is glossy lime-green with rose-brown shading and fine brown spotting, giving the flower a distinctive tiger-like appearance.

Care Tips:

• Light: Provide bright, filtered light or moderate shade. Avoid strong midday direct sunlight. AOS recommends roughly 1,000–2,000 foot-candles for Paphiopedilums, depending on the type.
• Watering: Keep the growing medium evenly moist but not waterlogged. Avoid allowing the plant to remain completely dry for extended periods, while ensuring excess water drains freely.
• Growing Medium: Use a moisture-retentive but well-aerated Paphiopedilum mix, such as fine or medium bark with perlite and other suitable organic components. Good drainage is essential.
• Humidity: Moderate humidity with good airflow is suitable. Avoid stagnant air, particularly when the medium remains moist.
• Temperature: P. tigrinum is considered a cool to cold-growing species, reflecting its high-elevation natural habitat. Cooler conditions are preferable to the warm conditions used for many mottled-leaf Paphiopedilums.
• Airflow: Provide gentle, continuous air movement, especially in humid growing conditions.
• Fertilizing: Feed with a diluted balanced orchid fertilizer during active growth. Flush the medium periodically with clean water to prevent fertilizer-salt buildup.
• Potting: Use a relatively small pot with good drainage. Repot when the growing medium begins to break down; AOS generally recommends repotting Paphiopedilums about every two years, or sooner when necessary.
• Flowering: Avoid major changes in temperature, light, or watering while the flower is developing. The species produces a single large flower on an erect inflorescence.