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Black Torch Orchid Wikimedia Commons
Orchidaceae

Black Torch Orchid

Phaius tankervilleae

Noble beauty.

Family
Orchidaceae
Genus
Phaius
Native to
Southeast Asia, Australia, Pacific Islands
Bloom season
Spring
Type
terrestrial perennial
Height
2-4 ft
Sunlight
part shade
Soil
Rich, moist, humus-rich soil
Water
high
Hardiness
9-12
Lifespan
perennial

Did you know

  • Also known as the nun's orchid, it was one of the first tropical orchids to be cultivated in England in 1778.
  • The tall flower spikes can bear up to 20 large, fragrant flowers that open sequentially.
  • Each flower is bicolored, with brownish-red outer petals and a white interior streaked with pink.
  • The plant has the largest leaves of any commonly cultivated orchid, reaching up to 3 feet long.
  • It is listed as vulnerable in parts of its native range due to over-collection and habitat loss.

Color meanings

0

grace

1

distinction

Uses

  • orchid collections
  • tropical gardens
  • conservatory displays