Paph Chiu Hua Dancer - Should I or shouldn't I

[rich63]

Since you have never tried growing paph.s before.I would purchase a couple of less expensive ones first and get the culture down first. Your first automobile wasn't a BMW or a Porsche was it? I wouldn't want to try growing a new type of orchid before spending that kind of $$$. But thats just me. Have Fun,Rich

[Kmac]

The BS one I saw was around $100 I think, so you are a bit under that. Still, to me that's a lot of money for a type of orchid I don't have much track record with...I like to learn on less expensive plants. Plus, I'd feel awful if I killed such a pretty orchid!!!

[debbianne84]

You know my two cents. I think waiting until you have flowers on some others is a good choice. I don't think they will discontinue this variety.

[Justin]

Suggest trying Paph. Michael Koopowitz, it is a hybrid of sanderianum and philippinense.

MK is very easy to grow and bloom and has long, twisty red petals, just not as spirally as Chiu Hua Dancer. MK is a very good multifloral paph hybrid for a beginner. They like warm temps (with a slight winter drop to initiate blooming), good quality water, and good humidity.

Best,
Justin

EDIT: Forgot to mention, MK is much less expensive too.

[Daethen]

Will have to keep my eye out for one. Thanks Justin.

[wonderlen]

Base on your experience with Paph. and orchids in general, you should stay away from multiflora paphs. They grow very slow, need high light and heat and more feeding than others. And each new growth take at least 2 years to mature before they bloom, and if you are blooming big multiflora paph every 2 yrs you are doing a great job.

Go with maudie paph or species from barbata (molted leaf) sections. They are easy to grow, cheap and u can expect to bloom every 8-12 months.

[Daethen]

Ok, before anyone says anything, I don't listen all that well. I do have patience when I can watch a leaf unfurl, but not it that leaf is in someone else's green house. So, I aquired my Chiu Hua Dancer. Got it at a good price. It is a single growth. I am now going to ask for all input on how to care for it if anyone is willing to give me advice. Thanks in advance.

[Kmac]

Aha! I just knew you would...you sounded quite hooked. Glad you got it at a good price, and I hope it does beautifully for you!

Kathi

[rich63]

I won't say it !! I sure will think it. Sounds like you will now have to invest in some supplemental lighting for your new addition. Just my opinion,Rich

[Daethen]

It will be worth whatever investment it takes. I just fell in love with this one from the first time I saw it. I know, I'm naughty. Now I just have to sneak it into the house!