Wenshan Paphiopedilum
CR

Wenshan Paphiopedilum

Paphiopedilum wenshanense

Declining

Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC) via https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paphiopedilum_wenshanense

Overview

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

Paphiopedilum wenshanense faces severe pressure from illegal collection for the international orchid trade, with its striking slipper-shaped flowers making it highly sought after by collectors. The species' extremely restricted range in limestone karst formations of Yunnan Province makes entire populations vulnerable to habitat destruction from quarrying and agricultural expansion. Climate change poses an additional threat as warming temperatures may push this cool-growing orchid beyond its thermal tolerance limits in its montane habitat.

Threat summary

Habitat

This terrestrial orchid grows exclusively in limestone karst formations and rocky crevices in montane forests of Yunnan Province, China, typically at elevations between 1,200-1,800 meters. It requires the specific microclimate conditions provided by shaded limestone substrates with excellent drainage and consistent moisture levels.

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 Wenshan Paphiopedilum classified as Critically Endangered?
Wenshan Paphiopedilum 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 wenshanense faces severe pressure from illegal collection for the international orchid trade, with its striking slipper-shaped flowers making it highly sought after by collectors. The species' extremely restricted range in limestone karst formations of Yunnan Province makes entire populations vulnerable to habitat destruction from quarrying and agricultural expansion. Climate change poses an additional threat as warming temperatures may push this cool-growing orchid beyond its thermal tolerance limits in its montane habitat.
Where does Wenshan Paphiopedilum live?
Wenshan Paphiopedilum occurs in China. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Wenshan Paphiopedilum?
The main threats to Wenshan Paphiopedilum 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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