Paphiopedilum insigne `Montanum Aureum’

This form of Paphiopedilum insigne was a popular item in 1885!

It was lost to cultivation subsequently, but later rediscovered in a garden in Madeira. This form has enormous flowers, up to 13 cm across, with upright, dark purplish/maroon stems. It is quite tolerant of colder temperatures (down to close to freezing) and is easy to cultivate.

This species prefers intermediate-warm conditions, bright diffused light, and should be kept drier in the winter.

In warmer coastal regions of California it can be grown outdoors year round (protect from frost and winter rains).