First time paph... paphiopedilum shin-yi heart x hung sheng

[Bean]

Hello!

I have a noid phalenopsis collection for past seven years or so. They are doing great. My first paph is on the way, a paphiopedilum shin-yi heart x hung sheng from a local grower.

What differences will I need to keep in mind between this newcomer and my phalenopsis? I have read quite a few care sheets. But hoping for any tips.

[Roberta]

This is a Maudiae-type Paph. I think it should do fine under conditions similar to the Phals - maybe even lower light, but similar warm temperature. Paphs do want to stay wetter than Phals, so never let it dry out. (Phals can get "close to dry", not bone dry but Paphs need to be closet to "damp" before watering again. )

Thinking about how they grow in nature... Phals grow in trees with roots hanging free - in places like the Philippines where it is very humid and rains almost daily but not constantly so there is some drying in moving air. Paphs are more likely to grow in mossy areas on the ground or in the cracks in rocks where they stay damp.

[Optimist]

I live in an arid climate, and so I use small-sized bark, and I add little slivers of rock wool (cut from a chunk).