CR

Paphiopedilum emersonii

Declining

Overview

A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.

Paphiopedilum emersonii faces severe threats from overcollection for the international orchid trade, where its distinctive slipper-shaped flowers command high prices among collectors. Habitat destruction through deforestation and agricultural expansion in its limited range has fragmented remaining populations. The species' extremely slow growth rate and specialized pollination requirements make recovery particularly challenging once populations decline.

Threat summary

Habitat

This terrestrial orchid inhabits humid limestone karst formations and rocky outcrops in tropical montane forests. It typically grows in well-drained soils with high organic content in partially shaded areas between 800-1500 meters elevation.

Rocky areas· major

Conservation measures underway

Resource & habitat protectionSpecies recoverySpecies reintroductionEx-situ conservationAwareness & communicationsLegislationLinked enterprises & livelihood alternatives

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Frequently asked questions

Why is Paphiopedilum emersonii classified as Critically Endangered?
Paphiopedilum emersonii is classified as Critically Endangered — facing an extremely high risk of extinction in the wild — because population sizes are very small, declining sharply, or restricted to a tiny range. Paphiopedilum emersonii faces severe threats from overcollection for the international orchid trade, where its distinctive slipper-shaped flowers command high prices among collectors. Habitat destruction through deforestation and agricultural expansion in its limited range has fragmented remaining populations. The species' extremely slow growth rate and specialized pollination requirements make recovery particularly challenging once populations decline.
Where does Paphiopedilum emersonii live?
Paphiopedilum emersonii occurs in China, and Vietnam. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Paphiopedilum emersonii?
The main threats to Paphiopedilum emersonii are 1.1, 11.1, 11.2, and 4.1. The full IUCN-classified threat record for this species is detailed on the species page.

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