Paphiopedilum fairrieanum
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
Paphiopedilum fairrieanum faces severe pressure from illegal collection for the international orchid trade, with wild populations systematically harvested for their distinctive blooms. Habitat destruction through deforestation and agricultural expansion in its limited Himalayan range has fragmented remaining populations. The species' extremely slow growth rate and specialized pollination requirements make recovery particularly challenging once populations decline.
Habitat
This terrestrial orchid inhabits cool, humid montane forests at elevations between 1,500-2,200 meters in the Eastern Himalayas. It grows in humus-rich soils on steep slopes under dense forest canopy, requiring consistent moisture and filtered light conditions.
