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Nun's Orchid
beginnercommonPhaius

Nun's Orchid

Phaius tankervilleae

Tall terrestrial spikes of brown flowers with white reverse.

Bloomsbrownwhite
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Waterhigh

Keep moist year round

Lightmedium

Bright filtered

Foodhigh

Feed weekly

Temp

60-85°F

Humidity

50-70%

Origin

SE Asia, Australia

Special care:Heavy feeder; terrestrial mix

About Nun's Orchid

Researching Nun's Orchid

Care guide

Potting medium

Open, fast-draining orchid bark mix in a pot with drainage holes.

Repotting

Every 2 years or when the medium breaks down.

Bloom season

Varies by species and growing conditions.

Bloom longevity

Typically 3–6 weeks per spike.

Growth habit

Refer to the species' parent genus for growth pattern.

Propagation

Division at repotting time, ideally just as new growth begins.

Pests & prevention

Watch for scale, mealybugs, and spider mites — wipe with diluted isopropyl alcohol.

Signs of trouble
  • Mushy roots → reduce watering and repot in fresh dry medium
  • Yellowing leaves → check light levels and watering frequency
Grower's tips
  • Consistency matters more than perfection — pick a routine and stick with it.
  • Air movement prevents most fungal and bacterial issues.