The new orchid I am going to tell you about is actually a relative of the Paphiopedium. Many times, they are often mistaken for Paphiopediums. The blossoms of the Phragmipediums are what makes these orchids one of the top most wanted orchid in the hobbyist collections. Still others, such as Phragmipedium pearcei , have pretty twisted petals and a puffy-looking pouch. Many Phragmipediums produce blooms all year round or at least most of the year.
Colors range from bright red, orange to deep purple, tans and greens.
They grow in many different areas and climates. Phragmipedium longifolium , pearcei , and klotscheyanum , for example, grow submerged during the rainy season in their area. You can find Phragmipedium caudatum high up in the trees while still other species can be found growing low on rocks. The culture requirements for Phragmipediums are not really difficult and I am sure you can find one that will adapt to your growing environment. The following are general growing conditions.