We are delighted to invite orchid enthusiasts, horticulturists, researchers, and plant lovers from around the world to the Slipper Orchid Symposium 2026 video recording , a premier gathering dedicated to the beauty, science, and conservation of slipper orchids.
Set amid the breathtaking botanical gardens of The Huntington, this symposium features expert speakers, cutting-edge presentations, and special slipper orchids celebrating the remarkable diversity of slipper orchids (Paphiopedilum, Phragmipedium, Cypripedium, and more), as well as slipper orchid culture.
Speakers
“The History of Paphiopedilum rothschildianum”
Tim Culbertson’s
passion has always been plants. He worked at Longwood Gardens, the Smithsonian Institution, and the National Arboretum. Just after college, he began growing orchids. It was always all about paphs for Tim. He manages the paph collection at Sunset Valley Orchids and does hybridizing in a wide range of genera. He is an accredited AOS judge.
“The Genetics of Flower Color and Breeding in Paphiopedilums”
Rob Griesbach, Ph.D.,
is a retired geneticist who conducted a broad-based research program in ornamental plant genetics, focusing on flower color. He has authored over 150 scientific papers, scientific seminars, and popular talks. Rob is an accredited AOS judge, past president of the AOS, and has received the AOS Research Recognition Grant.
“Phragmipedium caricinum: 150 years of Errors & Mistakes”
Frank Cervera,
is a biologist studying the ecology, biology & taxonomy of the genus Phragmipedium in natural populations for over 25 years. He has frequented the jungles of Mexico, Central & South America, studying the genus, giving him unique access to the source material.
“The Intriguing Story of Paphiopedilum sanderianum”
A trip to Hawaii sparked Deborah Boersma’s
interest in orchids, and she has been under their spell for over 30 years. She taught chemistry at the college level for over 28 years. Deb is an accredited AOS judge, and she enjoys educating audiences about orchids. She was a speaker at the World Orchid Conference in Taiwan in 2024.
