I want a Paphiopedilum delenatii

[snowflake311]

I have been thinking of getting a Paphiopedilum delenatii . I hear they have a good smell. They are so pretty. My other paphs are doing well they have new growth and seem happy I am waiting to see if they bloom for me again.

Are these easy to grow? Will they be hardy? Anyone have them? How do they grow for you?

[MrHappyRotter]

Paph. delenatii is a wonderful species, and it's an excellent choice for those new to growing paphs. It's definitely the easiest and most forgiving parvi, and in my opinion, no paph collection is complete without it.

I have two different clones of delenatii, one is a dunkel/vini, the other is 1/2 dunkel/vini. I've had the 1/2 vini for several years, and it's been trouble-free. I give it slightly more light than I'd give a phalaenopsis, and grow it on the warm to intermediate temperature range year round. It does not seem to need any kind of resting period, and grows year round. The only special treatment is that I do not use oyster shell or crushed coral in the potting mix, as I do for most other paphs. Delenatii prefers an acidic potting mix, so don't add alkaline components, but do consider adding some sphag or peat to help acidify things.

My suggestions?

Delenatii is generally among the most affordable paphs, perhaps being a little more expensive than a maudiae hybrid, but not by much. Since the price is usually low, you might as well start with a large, mature, healthy, blooming-sized plant (or get one in bloom/bud).

If you have a local vendor with delenatii in stock (and in bloom) you may want to stop by, mid-morning to early afternoon on a sunny day, and pick one out at that time. This will give you the best chance of selecting one that's fragrant. Every plant is a little different, there are slight variations in the scent ... some are more mild and soft, others are more sharp and strong. Further, the intensity of the fragrance will vary from plant to plant. Some will have little to no fragrance, others will be quite noticeable.

Finally, consider your personal preferences when choosing the variety. If you like larger flowers, and lighter/pinker color tones, go for the classic delenatii. These will tend to be easier to grow, more vigorous, and have better flower shape. If you like purple tones better, appreciate the darker leaves, and like smaller flowers and growing habit, then you should definitely go for a dunkel. Of course, there are crosses that are 1/2 and 1/2, which will tend to be somewhere in the middle in terms of leaf color, flower color, flower size, and over all size of growths.

As for the fragrance, that's what really makes me like this species. Some of them remind me of green apple or apple peels, some are reminiscent of rose, others are similar to southern magnolia or brugmansia (if those are familar to you).

[snowflake311]

Thanks MRHappyROTTER that was helpful.

I want a compact grower don't care about color much. Would like it to have a nice scent. But most Paphs are compact to me because the leafs don't grow Tall my like Other types.

[NYCorchidman]

I have one (standard form) in bloom, well, after being in bloom for about 6 weeks, it is fading now.
Mine had no scent.

I have a bunch of seedlings that are nearing the mature size, and I hope one of them at least will be fragrant.

By the way, why did you not mention alba flower?
Pure white flower with bright yellow center with bright green leaves? They are also pretty, although I like the standard form the best.

And I have a lot of delenatii hybrids. I love them!!!
Paph. delenatii and its hybrids are all very easy to grow.

[terracotta7]

Get one of each!

[NYCorchidman]

Anyone know if the alba flower is also fragrant?
Or should I say "can" it be fragrant since the presence of fragrance is rather individual, not universal?

[snowflake311]

I can't find a seller near me. So looks like I will just have to cross my fingers and hope I get one that smells good. These are so cool I am going to start my search for one.

[NYCorchidman]

hope you find one! and I hope at least one of remaining seedlings will be fragrant!

[tarev]

I have a Paph delenatii as part of an orchid growing project we have at another forum, so far my plant has not bloomed yet, but it has been growing new leaves. I got it last July 2013.

So far plant is still alive. Still hoping for some blooms.

[snowflake311]

The cool thing about the Paph Delentii is the leaves are so cool. Its a nice plant even when not in bloom.

I hope yours blooms too. Maybe you should move it or start trying different things to get it to bloom? Finding what works for your environment is the key I think.

I found a 3 year old plant for a good price it's a Paph. Delenatii X Sib I bought it. I will have it next week. I hope I can get it too bloom.