Botanical Name: Bletilla striata
Common Name: Chinese Ground Orchid
Type of Plant: monocot: perennial
Character deciduous
 
Habit of Growth:
Overall Shape clumping grasslike orchid with few leaves – grows from a tuberous root which persists through the winter months while the foliage dies back
Height to 2'
Spread to 1'
Growth Rate slow
 
Environment:
Exposure outdoor partial shade preferred
Soil needs a well-amended soil rich in humus
Hardiness Hardy (all zones)
 
Morphology:
Leaves narrowly elliptical, to 10" long with heavy parallel vein patterns showing on both sides – 3 to 6 leaves per plant per year
Flowers spikes of cattleya-like orchid flowers lavender to pink with splotches of white – forms spikes about 12" long in mid spring
Fruit narrow 3-valved capsule
 
Propagation:
division
 
Usage:
small specimen plant for containers or shaded beds, good for small-scale landscapes, tropical or forest-style plantings
 
Landscape Care:
Watering takes average water – not drought tolerant
Fertilizing half-strength balance fertilizer in spring before flowering
Pruning remove dead leaves and flower stalk when spent
Pests/Diseases none
Special Conditions/Other blooms best when crowded
 
Origin: China
Family: Orchidaceae

Notes:
 
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