Phragmipedium besseae

It seems to me that of all the truly beautiful and interesting species posted here there is a lack of posting about slipper orchids. I'm not a real big Paph. fan, but I do find many of the Phrags worth growing. This species is native to Ecuador and Peru and is often associated with vertical, wet cliffs.

This is a first blooming for me. I find it especially satisfying not only because I bloomed a species I never have before, but also because when I'd ask about these at area shows, vendors always told me not to waste my time. They'd always tell me it's impossible to grow much less bloom besseae in this climate. I'm happy I've been able to prove them all wrong. I grow this one in a west window indoors. Temps are 80s for highs with winter lows into the 50s. I've used a modified semi-hydro for this one. It's potted in an unglazed clay pot filled with Hydroton and a saucer of water about halfway up the pot

This plant is the result of Orchid Zone breeding and is from the cross "Balance x Curves".

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