Phaius and the intergeneric hybrid Phaiocalanthe are terrestrial orchids commonly called ‘Nun’s Orchid’ or ‘Nun’s Hood Orchid’. They offer an interesting “new” flowering pot plant for the tropical plant grower. Phaius and Phaiocalanthe are vigorous plants with thin, pleated leaves that produce erect flower spikes with numerous flowers. The flowers open sequentially on the spike lasting 4 to 6 weeks or longer. Larger more mature plants will produce multiple flower spikes producing an incredible display of flowers. Flower colors range from pink to burgundy, rose, red, and yellow tones. The new hybrids are generally smaller in proportion than the common species (P. tankervilliae) and make excellent 4” and 6” flowering pot plants.

Ideal growing light levels are 800-1200 ft. candles, however plants will adapt to 1500-1800 ft. candles. When moving from low to high light conditions, do so gradually to prevent foliage burn.

Recommended potting medium is a well drained foliage mix or high quality sphagnum moss. Maintain the pH of the medium in the range of 5.6 – 6.8 for good nutrient absorption.

To improve finish times and reduce space requirements we recommend planting a liner into a 4 inch pot for the first 4-6 months. Going directly into a 6 inch pot is possible but may take slightly longer to flower. Take care when potting since packing the medium too tight will not give the roots sufficient aeration and may cause root rot. When bumping plants up to the next size do not disturb the root ball. Add more media repeating the same steps as potting the initial liner. Phaius should not be allowed to become pot bound. Pots should be kept evenly moist and allowed to almost dry before watering.

Fertilizing should be done frequently year round with a balanced fertilizer with trace elements and calcium and magnesium added. We recommend 20-10-20 Cal-Mag and feed at a rate of 400 ppm during the spring summer and fall and 200 ppm during winter months.

Temperature for ideal growth is 60°F during the evening and 85°F during the day. Phaius are very forgiving plants and will withstand temperatures down as low as 32°F and high temperatures can exceed 100ºF.

Pest problems are generally minimal but watch for aphids, thrips and spider mites. Broad mites can create distortion in newer growth. We are not aware of phytotoxicity issues from common pesticides but testing under your conditions is recommended.

Phaius and Phaiocalanthe will begin their flower spike initiation as early as November with the first flowers emerging in December. Most cultivars will bloom between December and May.

A liner potted up no later than May can finish growth in a 6” pot by it’s flowering time in late fall or early spring of the following year. For a nice full finished 4” pot allow at least 6 months growth. Planting in the late summer or later and carrying the plant through two growing seasons will produce large specimen plants with multiple bloom spikes.