Name: Phragmipedium Dr Koopowitz

Parents: Phragmipedium kovachii × Phragmipedium vittatum

Registration: Grex registered in the RHS International Orchid Register; registered on 30 October 2023 by Ecuagenera.

Etymology: The generic name Phragmipedium, with its Greek word elements, refers to “partition” and “shoe.” The grex name Dr Koopowitz honors Harold Koopowitz, the internationally renowned orchid researcher and Phragmipedium expert.

Location/Growing conditions: We recommend bright, filtered light, high humidity, and good air circulation. Intermediate-warm conditions of approximately 17–27 °C during the day and 12–19 °C at night are favorable. The potting medium should be very airy while remaining evenly and slightly moist.

Description and notes: This primary hybrid combines the exceptionally large, richly colored flowers of P. kovachii with the more elegant growth habit and longer flower segments of P. vittatum. Seedlings can vary considerably. We water regularly with water that is as soft as possible and fertilize lightly but continuously during growth. The root zone should not be allowed to dry out completely.