Nun Ground Orchid Live Tropical Plant Terrestrial Phaius tankervilleae Shade Garden Plant Unusual Pink White Brown Flower Starter Sz 4

The Nun Orchid, commonly named for its hooded flowers, is a large-growing species of terrestrial orchid introduced into the United States from China in the 18th Century. It grows large, maturing at 2 to 3 feet tall, with large, broad, thinly pleated strap leaves.

The showy, lightly fragrant flowers rise from the pseudobulb main body of the plant in late winter to early spring, responding to the changes in the number of daylight hours. They form and open slowly over several weeks into beautiful, pendulous orchid-like flowers in creamy white, mauve, and rose pink with a contrasted brown reverse on the base petals. Flowers are long-lived and last 4 to 6 weeks. Plants shipped between early February and April usually have bloom spikes forming. We stake and take every possible measure to protect them, but the bloom stalks are fragile, so we cannot guarantee plants will arrive with buds or blooms. However, the bloom cycle is long, with spikes beginning in early February. Plants ordered in February and April will likely produce flowers in the same season.

Care: The best location is partial to dappled all-day shade. The Nun Orchid thrives on consistent moisture and is a heavy feeder. Water it generously during the active growing season (spring through fall), but ensure the potting medium drains well to prevent root damage. Feed it weekly with a half-strength balanced orchid fertilizer during this period. After flowering, reduce watering and stop fertilizing to provide a cool, dry rest period.

Indoor Growing: Nun Orchids can be grown indoors, but may require modifications to increase light, humidity, temperature, and create a temperature differential to provide modest chilling during the winter resting phase, which is essential for creating flowers in the spring.

Climate: Nun Orchid is a tropical plant recommended for growing in Zones 8B, 9, 10, and 11. Protection from frost and freezing is required in all zones for the longest life, best appearance, and earliest flowering. Note that Zone recommendations are based on average temperatures and do not consider other variables. This plant enters a dormant resting phase in winter, and requires modestly cooler temperatures above freezing to create flowers in the next bloom cycle.