These are stemless, terrestrial orchids from southeast Asia, which are commonly known as slipper orchids. They have thick, fleshy leaves arising from a short rhizome. The waxy flowers are borne, usually singly, at the top of a long, slender stalk, and are in shades of green, pink, maroon, orange, yellow, bronze, and purple.

The flowers have a pouch-shaped lip like the front of a slipper, hence the common name. Each lasts from 8 to 12 weeks, and the flowering season is between fall and spring.

Size: Height 18 in. (45 cm).

Light: Indirect sunlight.

Temperature: Keep below 55°F (13’’C).

Moisture: Keep moist all year, apart from a six-week period after flowering, when only enough water should be applied to stop the soil drying out.

Feeding: Give foliar feed once a month, except during the rest period after flowering.

Propagation: Divide at the end of the flowering season.

Special needs: The roots will rot if the plant is over-watered. If the flower is drooping, tie it to a thin cane inserted into the pot close to the plant.