Paphiopedilum barbatum
Paphiopedilum barbatum, commonly known as the Penang slipper orchid, is a slipper orchid species in the Orchidaceae family. It is found in the Malay Peninsula, Sumatra and Thailand. As of 2015, Paphiopedilum barbatum has been declared as an endangered species by the IUCN. This slipper orchid is considered as highly valuable among orchid enthusiasts.
Taxonomy
The acclaimed original description was from 1841 by Lindley through a sample taken from Gunung Ledang in south of Malay Peninsula, although another description by Blume early in 1823 was presumed to be the original P. barbatum description.Description
Paphiopedilum barbatum consists of 5 to 8 leaves measuring up to long and, with the upper surface being mottled pale and dark green while the lower surface is dark green in color. The leaves have ciliate basal margins. Its purple inflorescence measuring long consists of a single flower that blooms up to wide, with peak flowering occurs in December to January, and June to July.P. barbatum exhibit a wide morphological and coloration variability within the Malay Peninsula. The Aceh population is differed by its undulate greenish petals and lack of pink or purple tinge.