The Splendid Paphiopedilum is native to Northeast India, in the area of Khasia hills, in the Meghalaya region and in the Sylhet region of Bangladesh. Plants usually grow at an altitude of 1000-1500 meters above sea level in the mild shade of shrubs found in this area. They often grow on cliffs built of dolomite limestones above streams and rivers - often near waterfalls. The roots usually sink into the soil or in moss. This species is a small to medium sized, cool growing humus epiphytic species with 5 to 6 strap-shaped, clear green, minutely bilobed apically leaves. The leaves are usually only 2 cm wide and 20-25 cm long.