Paphiopedilum victoria-mariae
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
Paphiopedilum victoria-mariae faces severe pressure from illegal collection for the international orchid trade, with its striking flowers making it highly sought after by collectors. The species' extremely restricted range in Sumatra makes entire populations vulnerable to overcollection. Habitat destruction through palm oil plantation expansion and logging has further reduced available growing sites, while the species' slow growth and specific pollination requirements limit natural recovery.
Habitat
This terrestrial orchid grows in the understory of lowland and hill dipterocarp forests in Sumatra, typically on limestone substrates with good drainage. It requires the humid, shaded conditions of primary forest with specific mycorrhizal associations in the soil.
