Carol:
I inherited a very root bound Nun's Orchid. It is blooming but has few leaves. Can I plant it in the ground as is and what conditions - the light/soil/etc. needed? Can I separate whatever I find when I get it out of the pot and then plant it as several plants? I have read that one way to make new plants is by using cuttings from the flowering stem. Is that the only way?
Thanks!
Edie
Hobe Sound

Hello Edie,
Below is a copy of the recent Plant Profile on Nun's Orchid I wrote for the paper. It will give you the basic information on growing. When you take the plant out of the pot, it is a good idea to separate the individual plants. This orchid is rhizomatous, meaning it has underground stems and will spread easily, even in a pot.

Propagation is also fairly easy, the division of the plant, as when you take it out of the pot is one way, it also will grow from seed, though orchid seeds do take a bit of knowledge and equipment, and it will propagate from flower stem cuttings. To propagate from the stems, remove the stem and any flowers remaining, cut into 1.5 to 2 inch lengths and push the stem pieces horizontally halfway into the soil. Cover the pot with a bag and keep moist, but not wet, and place in a shaded location until growth starts.

Plant Profile
Scientific Name: Phaius tankervilliae
Family: Orchidaceae
Common Names: Nun’s Orchid
Native to: Himalayas
Description: A true orchid, terrestrial, meaning grows in the ground. Large leaves to 3 feet often crinkled or folded like a fan. The flowers are produced on a large flower spikes with many 4 inch flowers. The flowers open in order on the spike lasting 4 to 6 weeks. The flowers have yellow-brown petals with a white backs and rose lips with a dark throat. Plants form large clumps with most flowers produced in late winter to early spring.
Hardiness: Used as a perennial in USDA Zones 8 – 11, extreme cold could cause dormancy, but should recover after freeze events.
Height/Width: Foliage is typically 3 feet tall with bloom spikes reaching 4 feet. Plants are rhizomatous – have underground stems and will spread slowly.
Light: Plant in shade to part shade to keep the foliage looking good.
Soil/Moisture: Plant in a moist area of well-drained soils. Nun’s orchid does require regular irrigation for best growth.
Culture: A vigorous plant and a heavy feeder. Use a balanced fertilizer 3-4 times per year. Plant on 2-3 foot centers and plan to thin regularly. Mulch heavily to keep the plant moist and the area free or weeds. Removal of flower spikes when spent will encourage more flowers and/or vigorous growth. Flower spikes will produce more flowers per spike as the plants mature.
Uses: Spectacular in pots around water features or as a tall ground cover in shady locations. One of the Florida Nursery, Growers & Landscape Association’s 2005 Plants of the Year.
Misuses & Pests: Too much sun in the tropics cook Nun’s orchid causing the leaves to blanch an ugly yellow & the leaf tips to burn. Also, over-crowding will cause a messy appearance. Occasionally aphids and spider mites will cause problems for Phaius.

Happy Gardening,
Carol