Paphiopedilum Whyte Thorne Savoir

Paphiopedilum Whyte Thorne Savoir is a registered primary hybrid between Paphiopedilum charlesworthii × Paphiopedilum rungsuriyanum.

This is a particularly interesting compact hybrid because it combines the attractive flower form and larger dorsal sepal of P. charlesworthii with the very small stature and distinctive clasping petals of the recently described P. rungsuriyanum. One documented plant had a leaf span of only about 6 inches (15 cm) while producing a flower around 3 inches (7.5 cm) across.

Care Tips:

• Light: Provide bright, filtered light or gentle morning/evening sunlight. Avoid harsh midday sun. Paphiopedilums generally grow well at around 1,000–2,000 foot-candles.
• Watering: Keep the medium evenly moist but not waterlogged. Avoid allowing the roots to remain completely dry for extended periods.
• Growing Medium: Use a well-draining Paphiopedilum mix containing fine or medium bark, perlite/pumice and moisture-retentive organic material. Fine bark or moss-based mixes can also work well when watering is carefully controlled.
• Humidity: Moderate to high humidity is beneficial, with good air circulation. Avoid stagnant, continuously wet conditions.
• Temperature: Intermediate conditions are suitable. Around 18–27°C (65–81°F) during the day with somewhat cooler nights is a good general range. Paphiopedilum hybrids can tolerate a reasonably broad range when acclimated.
• Fertilizing: Apply a diluted balanced orchid fertilizer during active growth. Flush the medium periodically with clean water to prevent fertilizer-salt accumulation.
• Airflow: Provide gentle, continuous airflow, especially when humidity is high.
• Potting: Use a relatively small pot with good drainage. Repot when the growing medium begins to break down rather than using an oversized container.
• Flowering: Keep light, watering and temperature relatively stable while the bud develops. Because this hybrid can produce a relatively large flower on a small plant, good root health is particularly important before flowering.