Paphiopedilum thaianum
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| Paphiopedilum thaianum | |
|---|---|
.jpg) | |
| Flower of Paphiopedilum thaianum | |
Scientific classification  | |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Clade: | Tracheophytes |
| Clade: | Angiosperms |
| Clade: | Monocots |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Subfamily: | Cypripedioideae |
| Genus: | Paphiopedilum |
| Species: | P. thaianum |
| Binomial name | |
| Paphiopedilum thaianum Iamwiriyakul, 2006 | |
Paphiopedilum thaianum, or the Thai paphiopedium, is a species of slipper orchid endemic to peninsular Thailand.[2] The orchid species is found in primary forest shade, on the slopes of steep limestone hillsides and cliffs.[3][4] It is found at an elevation of 350–450 meters above sea level.[5]
It was initially described by Prapanth Iamwiriyakul in 2006.[5] However, P. thaianum is considered as very similar to P. niveum, with the key difference being the flower of P. thaianum is significantly smaller than P. niveum.[6] As such, it is still uncertain whether P. thaianum should be considered as a standalone Paphiopedilum species or a variety of P. niveum, as long understood by local enthusiasts before Iamwiriyakul's description.[7][4] Another proposition of P. thaianum's differentiation is its distinct fragrant smell.[7]