Paph Presidentially Macabre (ID NEEDED)
ID NEEDED
I got this orchid from a vendor who was displaying at our local orchid society. I am pretty sure it is not a Paph Presidentially Macabre. I’ve found only one picture and this looks nothing like it. It does look like some sort of Paph Macabre, and is most reminiscent of a Paph Hawaiian Illusion.
Mine is a beautiful example of a dark Paph Maudiae that is capable of blooming from multiple growths. It has mottled leaves making it an attractive addition to my sunroom even when not in bloom.
I will update this page as I get more clarity.
Growth Pattern
When I got this it was in full bloom. I don’t have a pic but I think it had two spikes. Since then it has rebloomed with only one spike. From when I first noticed the new bud until it bloomed was around 8 6 weeks, so probably from spike to bloom it’s 8-10 weeks, typical for most of my orchids. The flower lasted a little less than 2 months. It is not in bloom now, but it has several mature new growths.
History and Features
Paphiopedilum Presidentially Macabre is a complex hybrid Maudiae-type Paphiopedilum registered in 2017 by Lehua Orchids of Hawaii. Created from the crossing of Paphiopedilum Presidential and Paphiopedilum Black Macabre, it represents modern breeding trends in dark Maudiae-type Paphiopedilums.
This striking hybrid is known for producing large, dark flowers that often display deep burgundy to nearly black coloring. The flowers, typically 4-5 inches (10-12.5 cm) across, show excellent form inherited from its complex breeding background. Like other Maudiae-types, it features attractively mottled foliage that adds to its ornamental value even when not in bloom.
Presidentially Macabre demonstrates vigorous growth habits and is relatively fast-growing for a Paphiopedilum. The hybrid combines the best qualities of both parents: Presidential contributes to its good form, while Black Macabre influences its dramatic dark coloration. The result is a robust plant that can bloom reliably from mature growths, making it a desirable addition to collections focusing on dark Paphiopedilum hybrids.
Culture
Water and Fertilizer
Keep consistently moist
Never allow to dry completely
Water quality important - low in dissolved solids. I fertilize with 1/4 tsp per gallon of low ppm tap water. After fertilizing I flush the pot.
Reduce slightly in winter but don't dry out
Light
Low to moderate light levels. They need more light than this implies. When I had my paphs in a less-bright part of my sunroom they grew but did not bloom. Once I moved them near the northeast window, they were much happier and did bloom.
North or east window ideal
Potting and Media
Fine-grade mix. Mine are all in medium bark and perlite. I’ve never done well with fine bark. My small orchiata bark just absorbs water and clumps up. Maybe mixing in some perlite and sphag moss would help.
Some sphagnum moss
Repot annually or when media breaks down. Actually repot whenever you want. Maybe avoid disturbing them while they’re in bloom.
Additional Notes
Tends to bloom in late winter/early spring
Famous for rosy pink flowers
Relatively easy for a Paph species
Grows well under lights
