A highly prized and exceptionally rare flower, this particular species of Paphiopedilum is endemic to Mount Kinabalu National Park in Sabah, Malaysia. Its defining characteristic is its vibrant, golden-yellow petals, marked with distinctive maroon spots. Cultivation challenges and its restricted natural habitat contribute to its significant value.
Its scarcity lends considerable prestige to its possession. The extended time it takes to reach maturity, often several years, combined with specific environmental needs, renders it highly sought after by orchid enthusiasts and collectors. Historically, its discovery and subsequent classification have contributed to the understanding of biodiversity in Southeast Asia.