Ernie Barham is a Homestead orchid hobbyist specializing in the growing of Paphiopedilums - also known as 'Paphs' (pronounced 'pafs') or 'Lady Slipper' orchids - a genus which for many years was said to be impossible to grow in South Florida.

However, after having successfully specialized in Vandas and Ascocendas for over 10 years, Ernie has for the past 24 years specialized almost solely in Paphs - which he has found to grow and flower very well and easily here.

His collection, which now numbers approximately 10,000 plants, is a combination of mottled-leafed species/hybrids and multi-floral or strap-leafed types. It is the latter, the 'multiflorals', which is his primary interest and the ones most easily grown in our area.

Ernie has received numerous awards from The American Orchid Society and many trophies and awards from local societies and shows. His program will highlight the easy-to-grow multi-floral Paph species, some of their primary hybrids, and Paph culture for South Florida. Ernie will also teach a mini-class on general Paphiopedilum culture before his main program.

In addition, Ernie will provide the plants for the silent auction table and bring some of his own plants to sell at the meeting. He will have plenty of starter Paphs, but EEOS members and guests will also have a chance to purchase some of his larger, more impressive divisions, as well as large divisions of other genera such as Brassias and Oncidiums. So you should plan on arriving early at the meeting!!