Nun's Orchid
phaius tankervilleae
Also known as: ["Nun's Orchid","Forest Cymbidium"]
Overview
A large, terrestrial orchid with striking, tall spikes of fragrant, hooded flowers, native to tropical and subtropical regions.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","aesthetic foliage","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Genus: | Phaius |
| Botanical Name: | Phaius tankervilleae |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in a bright, humid room or greenhouse
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–12"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days, especially during dry periods or when humidity is below 50%
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Orchid bark mix with perlite and charcoal for aeration and drainage.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or when dead material accumulates.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; focus on removing dead or damaged parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; adjust for seasonal light intensity.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to new light conditions; avoid direct sun to prevent scorching; place in east-facing windows for ideal light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
bright, indirect light
Rotate plant weekly; use sheer curtains for filtered light; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing to every 2–3 weeks in dormancy
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-draining orchid mix with bark and perlite
pH: Slightly acidic (pH 5.5–6.5).
Use orchid-specific mix; avoid heavy potting soils; ensure pots have drainage.
Temperature
Ideal range 60–85°F (15–29°C); prefers stable temperatures year-round.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain stable conditions; protect from drafts.
Fertilizing
every 2 weeks during active growth with balanced orchid fertilizer, none in dormancy
Flush soil periodically to prevent salt buildup; fertilize after watering to avoid root burn.
Propagation
Methods
Division of pseudobulbs or backbulbs; occasionally via seed (labor-intensive).
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Divide mature plant.
- Ensure each division has 3–4 pseudobulbs.
- Pot in fresh medium.
- Water lightly.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when new growth begins.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (70–80°F), indirect light.
Medium
Fine orchid bark mix or sphagnum moss with perlite.
Hormone
Not typically required for division; rooting hormone may aid backbulb propagation.
Timeline
Division: immediate establishment; backbulbs: 6–12 months to root and grow.
Tools Needed
Clean knife, sterilized pot, orchid mix, rooting hormone (optional).
Quick Tips
Keep divisions moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat for backbulbs; avoid direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut flower spikes at the base; trim dead leaves with clean cuts.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flower spikes and dead foliage to encourage new growth; shape plant for better light exposure.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilized knife, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; cut dead material; avoid over-pruning; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, just before new growth starts.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure it has drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim dead roots; repot in fresh orchid mix with good drainage; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when medium decomposes; necessary for healthy root growth.
Checklist
Prepare new pot; sterilize tools; trim roots; use fresh medium; water sparingly post-repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base, allowing water to reach the root zone; ensure excess drains away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis, leaf drop, or bud abortion in extreme cold; wilting or leaf burn in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root damage.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or develop brown edges; growth may stall.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply during active growth; reduce in dormancy.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced orchid fertilizer (20-20-20) diluted to half strength every 2–4 weeks during growing season; reduce in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicPhaius tankervilleae is not considered toxic to cats. There are no known adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this orchid species.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicPhaius tankervilleae is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this orchid species.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Humans
Non-toxicPhaius tankervilleae is not considered toxic to humans. There are no known adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this orchid species.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Phaius tankervilleae?
A: Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil is dry, typically once a week during growing season.
Q: Does this orchid require special lighting?
A: It thrives in bright, indirect light; avoid direct sunlight to prevent leaf burn.
Q: Can Phaius tankervilleae be grown indoors?
A: Yes, it adapts well to indoor conditions with proper light and humidity.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | bright, indirect light |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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