Family: Orchidaceae

Origin, Description & Uses
Phaius tankervilleae, commonly known as nun’s orchid, swamp orchid, or veiled orchid, is a large terrestrial orchid native to tropical and subtropical regions stretching from Asia to the South Pacific. This striking plant is valued for its tall flower spikes, broad pleated leaves, and large, long-lasting blooms that are often shades of purple, brown, cream, and white. It is widely cultivated as an ornamental in tropical gardens and landscapes because of its dramatic appearance and ability to grow well in moist, shaded conditions. In Hawaiʻi, it has become naturalized on Kauaʻi, Oʻahu, Molokaʻi, Lānaʻi, Maui, and Hawaiʻi Island.

Risks & Threats
Although naturalized in the Hawaiian Islands, Phaius tankervilleae is currently considered a low-risk species. It does not appear to spread aggressively or cause major ecological disruption in Hawaiʻi’s native ecosystems. However, because it can reproduce and persist outside cultivation in wet habitats, continued observation is appropriate to ensure populations do not expand into sensitive natural areas. Gardeners are encouraged to plant responsibly, monitor for unwanted spread, and consider using non-invasive or native alternatives in areas near native forests and wetlands.

High Risk Traits:

• Thrives in tropical climates
  
• Elevation range exceeds 1000 m
  
• Widely naturalized
  
• Naturalized on Kauaʻi, Oʻahu, Molokaʻi, Lanaʻi, Maui, and Hawaiʻi
  
• Shade-tolerant
  
• Plants propagate with the help of subterranean corms
  
• Produces wind-dispersed seeds
  
• Able to self-pollinate
  
• Can reproduce vegetatively from adventitious plantlets on old, severed inflorescences

Low Risk Traits:

• Despite ability to naturalize, no negative impacts to agriculture or natural areas have been documented
  
• Unarmed (No spines, thorns, or burrs)
  
• Non-toxic
  
• Ornamental value
  
• Seeds are recalcitrant and will not form a persistent seed bank
  
• Does not tolerate damage from grazing animals, trampling, or fire