As much as I hate to take down yesterday's opening photo, at least it is replaced by a marvelous hybrid. While Paphiopedilum emersonii is rare and somewhat difficult to maintain in cultivation, the hybrids from this stunning species have proven to be sturdy, dependable, and beautiful, although somewhat slow to grow to maturity. The best of them are worth the wait, as the above flower shows. Top of the line parents were used to make the grex from which this plant was selected, and it is difficult to imagine a flower combining the 2 parents in a superior way to that already exhibited. The flower has enormous size, terrific color, intense netting, all on a long and sturdy inflorescence. And if that isn't enough, there is a lovely fragrance, as well! Truly a hybrid to be treasured!
