If you are wondering what Kinabalu is, then here is the answer. Mount Kinabalu, as it is more popularly known, is located in the Southeast region of Asia belonging to the country of Malaysia. The Kinabalu National Park, a World Heritage Site, houses one of the most expensive orchids in the world. These orchids are said to be the “Gold of Kinabalu”.

Also known as the King of the Paphs, the Paphiopedilum rothschildianu (also called “Rothschild’s slipper orchid” named after the person who discovered it) can cost up to $5,000 per stem.

Why are they so expensive? The reason is this species of orchid is considered to be an endangered one. It’s so rare that its flowers can take up to 15 years before they can bloom. The flowers are amazingly beautiful. They brag green petals with red spots. Its upper and lower petals look more like stripes for afar. While two of its side petals are extremely long and dangly. Its thin stem can hold up to six flowers horizontally, which give them the appearance of being huge. Its leaves are semi-translucent and it thrives near places with lots of water and humidity.

The flower reproduces by attracting insects to lay on its petals. Because of its spotted flowers, to insects it looks like aphids. Once insects like parasitic flies land on the petals, the flowers attach their pollens to it. Like some of its exotic orchid cousins, it imitates insects to successfully transfer pollens from one plant to another

Orchids used to be one of the most expensive plants. Nowadays, because of the variety they have been made available for everyone at prices that are very affordable.  At the cost of $5,000 per stem, this orchid is certainly expensive and reserved only for the ones who can afford it.

What do you think about this orchid? Leave your comments below.

For information about other types of orchids, here are some more affordable orchid plants.