Tropical Slipper Orchids: "paphiopedilum" & "phragmipedium" Species & Hybrids

If orchids have a mystique that sets them above other plants, then slipper orchids must assuredly represent the "cr√(R)me de la cr√(R)me," the royalty of the orchid world. Distinguished from other orchids by a prominent slipper-shaped lip, their curious flowers are sometimes majestic, sometimes bizarre. These captivating plants have entranced orchid growers for 150 years and may be the most popular group of orchids in cultivation. They are also among the easiest orchids to grow and flower.
In this horticultural account of the group, noted plant biologist and former professional orchid grower Harold Koopowitz concentrates on tropical slipper orchids in genus "Paphiopedilum" from Southeast Asia and genus "Phragmipedium" from Central and South America, including one former phragmipedium from Mexico now in its own genus, "Mexipedium," Descriptions of the cultivated species and the best and most desirable of the tens of thousands of hybrids are arranged by horticulturally important alliances. While the engaging text is filled with tips and advice for growing these intriguing plants, it also provides comprehensive information on their history, biology, ecology, and conservation. A bonus for enthusiasts who want to flower orchids they have raised is the detailed explanation of modern methods of propagation and breeding.
Specialist collectors and hobbyists with only a windowsill to devote to orchids will find a wealth of information in this authoritative reference. The 359 sttunning illustrations include watercolors by Carol Woodin and special photography by James Comstock.

Distinguished by a prominent pouchlike sac which resembles a ballroom slipper and often decorated with warts, hairs, or stripes, the flowers of slipper orchids may be ugly or pretty, depending on your point of view. In either case, they are captivating to amateur and professional orchids growers alike and indeed may be the most poplar group of orchids in cultivation.

The tropical slipper orchids in cultivation come from two major genera, "Paphiopedilum" from Southeast Asia and "Phragmipedium" from Central and South America, and one minor genus, "Mexipedium" from Mexico. Tens of thousands of hybrids have been made using paphiopedilums and phragmipediums, and each year hundreds more are introduced. All are surrounded by mystique, and all can be grown as houseplants or greenhouse plants.

Descriptions of the species are organized into alliances which are of horticultural importance. The five most important species for breeding exciting hybrids are treated in a separate chapter. The last ten chapters introduce the best and mnost desirable hybrids, again by alliance.

Connoisseurs and beginners alike will find this a useful reference to one of the most intriguing groups of orchids.