Paphiopedilum wardii 'Freckles' HCC/AOS x sib offers seedlings from an AOS-awarded clone of this charming Burmese and Chinese species. Paph. wardii is known for its intricately spotted flowers — a green dorsal sepal densely peppered with dark brown freckles, paired with spotted petals and a prominent pouch with fine dark venation.
In nature, this species grows in the forests of Myanmar and Yunnan Province, China, at 1,000–1,500 meters in shaded, humid conditions. The compact rosettes of mottled foliage are attractive year-round, and the flowers carry a quiet sophistication that rewards close inspection.
As a sibling cross from an awarded plant, these seedlings should produce excellent flower quality with the dense spotting pattern that earned 'Freckles' its HCC recognition. Expect some variation — the beauty of a seedling population.
Grow in intermediate conditions (60–75°F), moderate light, and consistently moist bark-based media. Supplement with calcium. Blooming-size plants available in limited quantity — a wonderful species for the collector who appreciates understated elegance.