Paphiopedilum wolterianum

[Mahon]

Neat species in bloom now... Paph. wolterianum is native to Cambodia, and placed under Section Barbata. This is often considered a variation of Paphiopedilum appletonianum (found in Laos and Thailand), but there are a few distinct characteristics that seperate the two taxa apart. Floralistically, the pouch is narrower and lighter colored, less warty than Paph. appletonianum. The petals of Paph. wolterianum tend to twist and droop. The dorsal sepal is more acute and rolled backwards, as opposed to being "hooded" as in Paph. appletonianum. The staminodial shield differs slightly in shape and coloration, and even placement. Vegetatively, Paph. wolterianum tends to have larger, more linear leaves. Well, here's a pic of it... tried to get a nice picture of it, and failed many times...



-PM