Orchid Pages - Slipper Orchids (I)

The slipper orchids consist of three genera, the temperate Cypripedium, the old world tropical Paphiopedilum (Paphs) and the South American Phragmipediums (Phrags). All have the characteristic pouches.

This is one of the pink Phrags, Phrag Saint Queen, taken in the Orchid House at the Royal Horticultural Society's garden at Wisley, Surrey. I think all of the red and pink hybrids (of which there are many) were all derived from using the recently discovered red Phrag. besseae. (see below)

It's a pity that the picture of this Paph is slightly blurred. Many of the Paphs leave me cold but I really liked this gnomish fellow with a big pink chin! It looks a little like the very popular "pinnochio", but this one seems more robust. Any ideas anyone?

Phrag. bessae var dalessandroi x Phrag bessae Mont Millais, wonderful vermillion flowers!