How do I recognize a new spike?

[Bmorepaph]

Ok, this may sound like a really dumb question but I am new! On several of my paphs. I have noticed small, flag like "baby" leaves emerging from the center of the plant. I was wondering if this is a sign that the plant is about to send up a spike? Thanks

[Ross]

Maybe. This is certainly a good time of year. If growths come from outside the fan, they are certainly new fans (a good thing - like new roots). If from the center, there's at least a 50/50 chance it's a spike, especially if the center of the fan starts to fatten up.

[julius]

As Ross mentioned, new growths will appear at the base of the leaves, some a couple mm away from the current growth & some so close that they emerge within the base of the bottom most leaf. For most paphs, the new leaves emerging from the center (crown) of the plant will be flat & similiar in appearance to the other leaves (i.e. mottled or solid green). As a bud or spike emerges, it is generally thicker & should be easily differenciated within a week or two. Sometimes, esp if the flower is dark, it is easiler to identify as well. Hope this helps, Chris

[IdahoOrchid]

Here is a picture of my Michael Koopowitz in low spike.

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One thing I have noticed, especially on multiflorals, is that the leaves will get progressively larger and longer as the growth matures. Then you will get a leaf that starts to grow and "soon" thereafter you will notice another new "leaf" starting. That is when I get excited, especially if the tip of the "leaf" has a little hook that goes in the opposite direction of a typical leaf. There may also be a darker shade to it or a second growth that is the sheath.

[Bmorepaph]

For some reason I am not able to view your photo, but I think I have seen it before in previous posts. Some of my paphs. do appear similar to your pictures but I will just have to wait and see! Thanks for having patience with a begginer!

[orchidexpress]

Sounds like you have a 'flower' emerging. I used to call them little swan heads when they rose up in the air.