Orchids from the DC Botanic Garden--all about the phragmipediums

Some of the most impressive displays at the DC Botanic Garden were the many dozens of blooming paph and phrag orchids. 

Also known as "Slipper Orchids", phragmipediums are orchids native to the Americas (not to be confused with paphiopedilums which originate from Asia).  There are approximately 20-30 species in this genus. 

Phragmipedium caudatum

Phragmipedium caudatum is a species endemic in Peru and Bolivia. The orchid has flowers which range in hue from green to shades of terracotta orange.  The flowers have long petals, up to 2.5 feet in length!

Phragmipedium longifolium

Phragmipedium Sedenii

Phragmipedium Sedenii is actually a cross between P. longifolium and P schlimii. Registered in 1873, it is one of the first manmade orchid hybrids.

Phragmipedium Grande

Phragmipedium Grande is a cross between P. longifolium and P. humboldtii. This phrag had the longest petals of all the orchids on display.

Phragmipedium Cardinale

Phragmipedium Cardinale is a cross between P. Sedenii, and P. Schlimii.

Phragmipedium Urgandiae 'Duke's Royal'

Another primary hybrid, Phragmipedium Urgandiae is a cross between P. lindleyanum and P. longifolium.

Phragmipedium Appalachian Sunset

Phragmipedium Sorcerer's Apprentice

Another primary hybrid, this orchid is a cross between P. longifolium and P. sargentianum.