Growing Paph micranthum? - Orchid Board

Orchidreamer · #1 08-13-2011, 05:23 PM

I visited an orchid show last spring and I fell in love with Paph micranthum. I read that this species likes it cool and humid. Keeping it cool during the winter will be no problem, but the humidity tends to be lower in winter. In summer, the humidity is a bit higher.

Anyone growing this indoors in a house? Any growing tips and advice? I have no fancy greenhouses, terraniums/glass enclosures, humidifiers, etc, but I can't wait to get my hands on a micranthum.

I heard it's difficult to grow--is that true? Is it particularly susceptible to rot or any other diseases? If I buy one it's only going to have 1 growth, so if something happens to it...

Oh, and also, here's my paph experience. I have Paph Bel Royal, Paph Amerni White, Paph Michael Koopowitz, and Paph Judge Phillips, and they're growing fine. I want to get my first Paph species (I know there are easier species to start with, but I love micranthum)!

PaphMadMan · #2 08-14-2011, 01:18 PM

Paph micranthum does have the reputation of being difficult, but that just means that most people have a hard time providing the conditions it needs, not that it isn't a robust and vigorous plant. I haven't grown it myself because I know I can't give it winter conditions mostly 45-60F. At the same time this is when it naturally gets the brightest light and the driest conditions. It may be sensitive to rot if kept too wet or dark during this very cool period, but it can't dry out completely. You need to get the right balance of perfect drainage and even moisture supply. I don't think lower humidity at this time is such a big issue.

The other aspect of micranthum that can be a challenge is the stoloniferous growth habit. New fans emerge at least several iinches away and may bury themselves in the media in a normal pot. Some have used basket culture to let the stolons emerge wherever they want, and this helps with perfect drainage too.

If you think you are up for the challenge and can afford to lose a plant if you aren't, then go for it. Otherwise I'd recommend something like tonsum or venustum or sukhakulii or even delenatii as a first species, and get Magic Lantern or Fanaticum for something with a micranthum look but somewhat less demanding culture.

Paphluvr · #3 08-15-2011, 08:19 AM

I totally agree with PaphMadMan. If you like the look of Paph micranthum, get a Paph. Magic Lantern instead. MUCH easier to bloom, faster growing, and not as much tendency to throw stolons. I've been growing Paphs for over 35 years and have not been able to bloom micranthum in the house (windowsill culture).

Best of luck!