Found at elevations of 500 to 1800 metres in northern Borneo on cliff faces and steep slopes covered in moss and peaty debris.
An erect, terminal, reddish, to 2 1/2′ [75 cm] long, pubescent inflorescence with ovate-elliptic floral bracts and carrying 2 to 4, large to very large, showy flowers blooms in the spring and summer. This species is a medium to large sized, clear leafed, multiflowered, warm to cool growing terrestrial that is occasionally lithophytic.
Light
The orchid Paphiopedilum rothschildianum requires a light intensity of 20,000 to 30,000 lux. The leaves shouldn’t be scorched, but there should be enough light to give them a vivid green hue. Although this plant is quite simple to cultivate and does well in the shade, there may be difficulties getting it to flower in those conditions.
Temperature
The plant needs a chilly rest period even if it is thermophilic. Summer temperatures typically range from 28 to 29 °C during the day and 16 to 17 °C at night, with a daily amplitude of 12 to 13 °C. The typical winter temperature ranges from 26 to 27 °C during the day and 15 to 17 °C at night, for a diurnal difference of 10 to 12 °C.
Humidity
Because the Gold of Kinabalu orchid naturally grows in rows beside streams, year-round high humidity must be provided. This orchid can grow in a greenhouse with temperatures that range from moderate to warm and high humidity levels of between 65 and 95 percent.
Substrate and growing media
Any loose, permeable substrate that retains moisture without absorbing should be suitable for growing plants. Sphagnum moss that has been diced up should be added, especially if the plants will be grown in areas with low humidity. When a plant is planted in a hefty, somewhat flat ceramic pot with a wide base, it will grow and become harder as it ages, making it simpler to handle.
Because this species prefers soil with a basic pH, supplying calcium to the substrate is crucial. The proper pH can be achieved by adding crushed shell to the substrate, which should be renewed as they dissolve. As an alternative, you might include natural rock in the substrate, which is dolomite that has been crushed and is sold in stores.
You should frequently rinse the substrate to prevent the buildup of mineral salts. Once a month is ideal; soak the roots and the substrate first, and then add double the volume of the pot’s volume of clean rainwater.
Watering
The plant should receive frequent waterings with minimal drying time in between. Never allow the substrate to become stale or wet.
Fertilizer
Every week or every two weeks during active growth, the plants should be fertilized with 1/4 to 1/2 of the prescribed orchid fertilizers dose, diluted in rainwater with a small amount of still tap water. Following this lowering, the nighttime lows should be increased to 16–17 °C, and within two to four months the plants should blossom.
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