Announcing the Slipper Orchid Symposium 2026!
We are delighted to invite orchid enthusiasts, horticulturists, researchers, and plant lovers from around the world to the Slipper Orchid Symposium 2026, a premier gathering dedicated to the beauty, science, and conservation of slipper orchids.
📅 Event Year: 2026
📍 Location: The Huntington
Address: 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino, California 91108
Also, it's available for viewing via Zoom, with a recording link provided for future reference.
Set amid the breathtaking botanical gardens of The Huntington, this symposium will feature expert speakers, cutting-edge presentations, and special exhibitions celebrating the remarkable diversity of slipper orchids (Paphiopedilum, Phragmipedium, Cypripedium, and more), as well as slipper orchid culture.
Whether you are a seasoned grower or newly fascinated by these extraordinary plants, the Slipper Orchid Symposium 2026 promises inspiration, learning, and connection with a vibrant community of orchid lovers.
More details—including schedules, vendors, and speakers—will be announced soon. Stay tuned!
🌿 We look forward to welcoming you to The Huntington for an unforgettable celebration of slipper orchids in 2026! 🌿
“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.
“Phrag. caricinum: 150 years of Errors & Mistakes”
Frank Cervera, is a biologist studying the ecology, biology & taxonomy of the genus Phragmipedidium 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 Boaersma’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.
Non-members: Join now and take advantage of the member rate for the coming year on all Orchid Digest Events, plus enjoy the Journal all year!
Registration after January 10, 2026, will be at the full non-member rate.
Problems registering? Call Jeff at (323)-864-2637
1151 Oxford Road, San Marino, California 91108
Orchid Digest Members Register Here
$99 for In-Person Registration, including lunch
$59 for additional guest dinners
$40 for virtual presentations
All registrants will receive a link to the recording a few days after the event.
Members, please ensure you are logged in before selecting the member rate option.
Guests Register Here
Save Instantly by joining Orchid Digest Today!
$125 for In-Person Registration, including lunch
$59 for additional guest dinners
$55 for virtual presentations
All registrants will receive a link to the recording a few days after the event.
Vendors:
Fang Hua Garden (Temple City, California)
Learn more about our partnership with The Huntington
