Paphiopedilum has short stems, leathery leaves, subbasal, banded or oblong-lanceolate, with green or reddish-brown markings. The scape is of a peculiar shape, drawn from a cluster of leaves, with pocket-shaped lips. Back calyx developed, beautiful pattern. Two lateral calyx together. The shape of the stamen is different from that of ordinary orchids, with two anthers on both sides of the stamen and thicker petals.