1st Paphiopedilum - leaf discoloration query

[Karl G.]

Hello gang,
I'm not sure what's developing in the leaf / crown intersection of this Paphiopedilum...the dark brown stuff.
(I'm not even sure if I have properly named this plant!)
So - what did I do to cause it, and what to do to help it?

Any help is much appreciated.
Karl G.

[aliceinwl]

It could be some type of rot, hopefully other users can advise on treatment options. If that’s the consensus.

Alternatively, it could be kept too dry or too cold. The bark looks pretty dry and Paphs don’t like to dry out completely. As soon as the media approaches dryness: it’s time to water. Mine also don’t like prolonged exposure to temperatures below 65 degrees Fahrenheit. Most of mine have also responded very positively to being repotted into fresh media so if the bark is old, repotting, watering, and keeping it warm could give it a kick start to recover and push healthy new growth.

[Ray]

I would agree with the rot. Possibly due to water standing in the leaf axils. You might consider carefully sprinkling a bit of cinnamon powder down into the “cups” in the leaves where the brown discoloration is.

In all likelihood, that growth will lose its crown, but they are sympodial plants, so a new growth will emerge from the base, so all is not lost.

[SADE2020]

It seems excess of water, let it dry a bit