Where do you get your paphs?

[kindrag23]

Okay, I would like one more paph. I have been outbid on the last 4 that I have really liked, or the ones I really like are outside my price range...go figure....

I have to order online. Carter and Holmes have some pretty ones But I am not really willing to drop that much money on just shipping.....

Kawamotto does not have any either...I did not see any that I really liked at Andys? Either...

[jeremyinsf]

What paph (specifically) are you looking for? What size plant? What is your price range?

[MrHappyRotter]

What's affordable for you and what sizes/types are you looking for?

I usually order from well-known vendors, there are a number of them that are really good. Most recently I've picked up some nice plants from Piping Rock and have strongly been considering a purchase from Fox Valley. I also try to make monthly or bi-monthly visits to the local spots that happen to sell paphs and phrags, even if it's only to look. The Orchid Trail is one such place. You might try searching online to see if there are any in your area.

I go through phases with Ebay. What normally happens is that things go well for awhile, and then I get burned. Then, I tend to sour on purchasing from Ebay for awhile. Ebay is a bit of a crap shoot in terms of quality sellers and prices. I don't get too attached to any plants before I win the bid, I'll put it that way. Normally I just specify the maximum I'm willing to pay, and then if I get it, great, otherwise, I don't think twice about it. I've gotten some really excellent deals that way. If you're set on specific plants, then yes, it can get pricey depending on your tastes.

Also, a lot of the orchid forums have sub-forums specifically for people to buy, sell and trade. Those usually work out pretty well if you find things you like and want.

[tucker85]

We bring you the finest Paphiopedilum, Phragmipedium, and other orchids available.: Piping Rock Orchids
orchids, gift orchids, hobby growing

[kindrag23]

I would take any type I really like the paphs with spotted leaves. I think those are so pretty.
My price range is 0.00-35.00 (with shipping).
any size is fine with me. I am really not that picky.

I have a paph Gode Froyea, that is a yellow color with really pretty spots.

[jeremyinsf]

You have lots, and lots of choices then!

If you need other supplies, you could place an order with Ray and get a paph from him. You will get a decent sized plant for the price. I have both of the $20 plants he lists and really like them both.

Plants

He only charges actual shipping, so if you need other stuff it's well worth it.

This is kind of a 'low' time for paph's in general. Many bloom in the fall/winter so a lot are in grow mode right now. If you give it some time and keep an eye on ebay, you will probably find something you really like. Just be careful of course -they are as addicting as other orchids - why I now have over 120 paphs :/

[kindrag23]

thank you, I will look into all of these, may have to wait and add them to my wish list if I find one I truly like.

---------- Post added at 06:45 PM ---------- Previous post was at 06:42 PM ----------

Wow, I love the fuzzy looking leaves on the paphs as well. Wow, well I am slowly working on finding out what my faves are.

[jeremyinsf]

Here are two of my favorite pages - photos of most the species, and also primary hybrids:

Species Photo Gallery

Paphiopedilum Primary Hybrids

Those will give you a great introductory perspective on the world of Paphiopedilums.

[billc]

Originally Posted by jeremyinsf

Just be careful of course -they are as addicting as other orchids - why I now have over 120 paphs :/

And I thought I had it bad!

Bill

[NYCorchidman]

I think eBay can be great at times. you just have to keep looking as good things pop up at random. I don't think it is any worse than any "growers" necessarily.

I wish piping rock has some picutures. I mean even with pictures, it does not mean much unless plants are division of mother plants, but still...

Sorry about all the yepping, so with your price range and preference, I think the best way to go is purchasing flasks or very small seedlings.
They may take more time and care, but cheap, and a few of many will come out great in the end if you are lucky!

I have bought my paphs mostly around where I live. A handful of stores in NYC carry paphs. mottled leaf ones are usually available any time of the year except for winter. Late fall into spring, the complex "bulldog" (I hate this nickname) types come out in the market.

I have a very specific preference in paphs, so I try and buy only the ones already in bloom, which is not easy because someone else always grab them first or the stores themselves will stick the best one in some very expensive display. go figure!

I now plan to drive around visiting nurseries where they have paphs in bloom and pick out what I like.