Phragmipedium, New World Slipper Orchid

Phragmipedium Cape Sunset

What is the purpose of the slipper orchid's pouch?
The pouch is part of a sophisticated pollination mechanism.

Phragmipedium species are pollinated by bees and by hoverflies. Spots and bumps around the entrance of the pouch attract female hoverflies which normally lay their eggs among aphid colonies, a food source for larval hoverflies. After finding her way beneath the inrolled edges of the pouch, the hoverfly has no escape route except through the two openings above the shield-shaped staminode in the center of the flower.

In the photo above you can see the yellow pollen packets positioned alongside each escape hole. The tight fit forces the pollen onto the back of the insect.

Phragmipedium schlimii and P. besseae on the waterfall in the Tropical High Elevation House

In nature many Phragmipedium species grow at moderate to high elevations in the Andes mountains, often on steep slopes fed by seepages, and in bright light.

Phragmipedium besseae

Phragmipedium schlimii