(Phaius tankervilliae 'Rabin's Raven') is commonly called nun's orchid because if you look into the throat of the flower, there appears to be a nun with her head bowed in prayer. This lovely terrestrial orchid is a robust plant that blooms with clusters of four to 12 fragrant blossoms; they are marked by burgundy or bronze on the lips, and brown petals that are creamy white on the reverse side. It displays its delightful flowers prominently above elongated, pleated leaves, on stalks that can be up to 6 feet tall. Relatively easy to grow, it clumps vigorously and is believed to be the largest of the Australian orchids. It is one of about 30 species of Phaius that grow from East Africa to Australia, and it has naturalized in some areas of Florida. This impressive plant likes well-drained soil in bright shade.

The orchid family consists of a large number of genera, each with its own unique characteristics. A common characteristic, however, is the basic form of the flower, which consists of three petals surrounded by three sepals -- often in dramatic and contrasting colors and in a variety of shapes and sizes. Although some orchids are native to temperate zones, most orchids tend to prefer a semi-tropical or tropical environment (USDA Zones 9-11) and have epiphytic roots -- meaning they derive moisture and nutrients from the air and support from another plant; few orchids grow in soil. Orchids usually prefer a diurnal temperature fluctuation -- meaning warmer days and cooler nights -- though the absolute temperature range (cool, intermediate or warm) varies by genus and is consistent with their natural habitat. While requiring adequate sunlight for a stunning bloom display, most orchids will not tolerate sustained direct sun.

Many varieties have pseudobulbs, a portion of the stem between leaf nodes that stores water to help sustain the plant through dry periods. Other varieties are monopodial, meaning upward growth is from a single growing point.

There is an exception to almost every general statement one can make about orchids. The family continues to challenge taxonomists.