Vivi's Orchid CornerJuly 2006 - Volume 11, Issue 7 Paph. Ho Chi Minh Paph. Ho Chi MinhDear Orchid Friends: Paphiopedilum Ho Chi Minh is a very special orchid indeed. This orchid is not an orchid one will find in the commercially grown and common market and is considered quite rare. Several years ago, this orchid caused quite a controversy as it was taken from the wild and illegally brought into the United States. The parentage for Paph. Ho Chi Minh is: Paph. vietnamense x Paph. delantii. Both species are from Vietnam. This orchid is a warm growing variety as compared to other slipper orchids. Vietnam is a moist, humid environment, so this variety grows well in South Florida climates. 
Paph. Ho Chi Minh has a large, broad flower with rounded petals and sepals. The petals are pale pink with ivory hues in the background. Petals are round and full and have a pink tint blending to the tips of the petals. 
Paph. Ho Chi Minh generally blooms late winter to early spring. This orchid likes to be well hydrated with an evenly moist medium. Water well and frequently. Provide adequate sunlight to promote blooms, however, caution is necessary to ensure it does not receive too much direct sun. Paph. Ho Chi Minh is such a beautiful orchid. Alas, it is not commonly found. Perhaps this wonderful cross will someday become more available in the commercial market. It is important to ensure that hybridizers obtain the specimen by legal venues. I was fortunate to view this orchid while in bloom. A true treasure indeed!Until next time, |
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