Question
I purchased a orchid back in July from a place up in Indiana where we were visiting. This orchid has a beautiful bloom on it but no name.
It is I believe also called a slipper orchid. Could you tell me the horticultural name for it and the proper care to keep it blooming.  

Answer
There are two principal types of orchids: Paphiopedilum (Paphs) and Phragmipediums (Phrags).  The most common type are the Paphs which fall into two types: the mottled leaf and the plain green leaf type.  The mottled leaf type requires less light but both can be grown under similar conditions. An east window in the house, shade under a tree as long as temps are above 50 degrees, or under at least 80 watts of florescent lighting.  Largest problem is keeping the correct moisture in the potting mix.  Too wet and the roots rot, too dry and new growth is limited.  It makes a great deal of difference what the growing mix is.  Keep the mix just slightly damp. Biggest problem is that potting mixes tend to compact or deteriorate over time limiting the supply of air to the roots.  If it is in sphagnum moss, make sure the moss is loose and not tightly packed.  It is a good idea to repot the plant at least annually.  That allows you to check out the root system to be sure decay isn't destroying the roots.  Not a bad idea to do this on a newly acquired plant as well.

Paphs are one of the easiest orchids to grow.  It likes house plant conditions.