What's in a Name? The Difference Between Paphs and Phrags

Back in the beginning of the Summer, I sought out to buy a new Paphiopedilum at a local store.  One of the things that really confused me about these 2 type of orchids was how to identify them from a simple eyeballing if the ID tags are missing? Some are quite easy to identify since many Paphs have mottled leaves and Phrags do not:

But it couldn't be that simple, could it? No, it's not! Look at the leaves on this Paph:

Before we get too deep into anything, let's go over a few basics on Lady Slipper Orchid anatomy:

The other characteristic people carefully inspect to discern the 2 types is the pouch shape:

Phrag Pouch

The lip of the pouch on Phrags is usually set much lower and away from the Staminode than on Paphs.  This produces the illusion of a more open appearance:

Paph Pouch

 

The petals on the Paph generally tend to be stockier, shorter, and more oval in shape.  Phrag petals tend to be longer, more delicate, and pointier.  The halos (Dorsal Sepal) on a Paph also tend to be wider while on a Phrag they tend to be more elongated and sometimes curl.  As a general rule, Paphs tend to be shorter overall while Phrags tend to be taller and leggier.

Of course, there are those examples that will throw you for a loop:

Paph Pouch

Phrag Pouch

Another characteristic which sets them apart is the country of origin (not where they are grown, but where they can be found in the wild).  Paphs come from India and other parts of Asia as well as Indonesia, South China, Burma, The Philippines' Solomon Islands, and New Guinea.  While Phrags are found in Mexico and throughout South America.  This is more significant than just one plant being from a more exotic location versus another, but it also affects the care regime they will require to successfully grow in your home.

Paph Care

Phrag Care

Lastly, for the most part since these plants are grown from seeds, they are sold with their tags in the pot, which takes the guesswork out, but if you find a noID from either genera you can't identify, and have fallen in love, keep in mind this is a very basic guide to distinguishing the two varieties.  These are my humble newbie observations along with some guidance from others who love these orchids.  There is a lot more to learn, and if you find yourself perplexed, don't be too hard on yourself.  Sometimes, even experts have a hard time telling them apart.