Paphiopedilum fowliei
Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC) via https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paphiopedilum_fowliei
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
Paphiopedilum fowliei faces severe pressure from overcollection for the international orchid trade, with its striking slipper-shaped flowers making it highly sought after by collectors. Habitat destruction through deforestation and agricultural expansion in its limited Philippine range has further reduced available growing sites. The species' extremely restricted distribution and slow reproductive rate make recovery particularly challenging once populations decline.
Habitat
This terrestrial orchid grows in humid, shaded understory conditions of lowland and montane forests in the Philippines. It typically occurs on well-drained soils with rich organic matter, often among leaf litter and moss-covered rocks at elevations between 200-800 meters.
