Paph. Rosslyn 'Pitts'

[littlefrog]

I have had this for several years from a retired grower near me in Michigan. He told me not to sell a piece for less than $300, kind of wondered what the fuss was about. But it is really nice, getting lots of requests for divisions. At least until a price comes up...

I believe this has an FCC/RHS. Was registered in 1911. This has some likelihood of being from the original grex. Grows well. Not sure what the bloom trigger is, but my other piece is also in spike.

 

[Tom-DE]

Antique isn't cheap!

 

[Ozpaph]

Not all old things are of monetary value.

 

[Djthomp28]

Interesting cross. I did not realize that Rolfei was that old of a cross to start with. I really like this intersection but I struggle with blooming them. At least they grow well.

 

[Austin Creek]

Rosslyn 'Pitt'S' has also been in my collection for a few years. My piece came from a wholesale grower in Hawaii. For me, it seems a bit easier to flower than Rolfei. And, a somewhat vigorous grower for a division of a plant that is probably > 100 years old.

Paphiopedilum Rosslyn (godefroyae x Rolfei) was registered in 1919 by H. T. Pitt, who was a member of the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) Orchid Committee from 1899 to 1927. He registered more than 100 Orchid hybrids, primarily in the Cattleya, Oncidium and Paphiopedilum alliances.

Rosslyn was named for the Rosslyn house at Stamford Hill, London where Mr. Pitt lived. Eventually, Rosslyn made its way to the U.S. In 1965, Paph. Rosslyn ‘Pitt’S’ received an AM/AOS of 80 points (exhibited by Dr. and Mrs. William W. Wilson in Philadelphia). Then, in 1968, ‘Pitt’S’ was awarded an FCC/AOS of 91 points (exhibited by Rod McLellan Co. in Oakland).