P. fairrieanum grows in India and Bhutan where it can be found growing near P. venustum. it was discovered in 1857, making it one of the earlier Paphs discovered. The English at the time grew them too hot in their hothouses, which ended up killing them so that by 1905, only one plant was known to exist in England. The great orchid collector, Frederick Sander, put out a prize of 1000 pounds for a plant and exclusive knowledge of its location. Many orchid hunters jumped at the chance, and three months after the offer was made, the species was rediscovered. Nearly 200 were eventually sold at auction, which ended up saving Sander & Co. from financial disaster.   

P. fairrieanum has a unique flower among Paph species. The unmistakable dorsal and upturned petals have made this species a favorite amongst collectors and hybridizers since its discovery 150 years ago. Its exotic appearance certainly contributed to the slipper orchid craze in the later 1800s, it has been an essential component of breeding programs every since. Bred for vigor and color, this Orchid Zone cross does not disappoint, and has produced very impressive examples of this species. If you're new to fairrieanums, these OZ plants are an excellent starting place. And if you're a long-time collector, what collection would be complete without the latest OZ fairrieanums?

http://paphinessorchids.com/index.php?page=shop.product_details&flypage=shop.flypage&product_id=62&category_id=1&manufacturer_id=0&option=com_virtuemart&Itemid=1&vmcchk=1