nun's orchid

Calanthe tankervilleae

HouseplantOrchidaceae

nun's orchid
Fragrant
USDA zones9 to 11
SunNeeds partial sun (4 to 6 hours)
WaterNeeds moderate soil
Size3 to 4 feet tall
Bloom season
Spring, winter

Garden uses

BorderContainer

Notes

Nun's orchid (Calanthe tankervilleae) is a houseplant for borders and containers. It grows outdoors year-round in USDA zone 9 and warmer, down to about 20°F (-7°C). In colder areas, grow it as a houseplant or bring it indoors for winter. This plant likes part sun and average moisture. It blooms in winter and spring, and the flowers are fragrant. Plants reach about 35 to 47 inches tall.

Pairs well with Evergold sedge, Green Mountain buxus, and Stokes’ aster.