Phaius mannii

General Information

Phaius mannii is a sympodial warm to hot growing orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae.

Plant Description

Sympodial. Grows to 30cm. Each new growth has numerous elliptic leaves that grow to 13-23cm long. The plant tends to climb or sprawl with each new growth

Climate

Grows at low elevations. Rainfall ranges from 2.5mm to 236mm per day, heaviest in May and lightest in February. Humidity ranges from 73% to 83%, highest in June and lowest in February. Temperature ranges from 18C to 31C, highest in September (23C to 31C) and lowest in January (18C to 27C).

Watering

These orchids prefer a constant supply of moisture, with a slight drying out between waterings. Saucers can be placed under pots to retain moisture during hot weather, however the saucers should be removed or let to dry every 1-2 weeks to prevent rot. Keep an eye on the plant especially in hot weather and look for cues of under/overwatering and adjust accordingly.

Fertiliser

Apply liquid based fertiliser per recommended directions. They can benefit from a high phosphate fertiliser leading up to flowering season, followed by a high nitrogen fertiliser when new growth appears, and a balanced fertiliser in other times. These orchids can also tolerate slow release fertiliser applied 1-2 pellets per cup (250ml) of media.

Apply fertiliser regularly at half strength year round.