Paphiopedilum Yellowing Leaves: Light, Mix & Natural Aging

Your new Paphiopedilum (slipper orchid) has yellowing/browning lower leaves in a west-facing bathroom. Three likely causes:

1. Potting Mix Breakdown

First check: Unpot and inspect roots. Degraded, compacted mix suffocates roots → leaf loss. Repot in seedling-grade orchid mix regardless—it's the #1 fix.

2. Too Much Light/Heat

Paphiopedilums prefer low to medium light (east window or under lights). Afternoon west sun in SoCal—even 3 feet back—can overheat and bleach leaves. Move to cooler, shadier spot.

3. Natural Aging (If Large Plant)

If it's a mature multi-growth plant, shedding oldest leaves is normal. But with only a few leaves, it's stress.

Action Plan

1. Repot in fresh seedling mix (fine bark, perlite, charcoal).
2. Move to east window or bright shade.
3. Keep evenly moist (never bone dry, never soggy).
4. Moderate temps: 60–80°F.

Paphs are tough once conditions are right. Fix the root zone first.