Chinese ground orchid
Bletilla striata
RHS AGM 2012
USDA zones5 to 9
SunHandles partial sun to partial shade
WaterHandles moderate to moist soil
Size12 to 18 inches tall6 to 12 inches wide
- Growth rate
- Moderate
- Habit
- Erect
- Bloom season
- Spring, summer
- Bloom color
- Pinkish-purple
- Foliage color
- Green
- Soil types
- Loam
- Soil pH
- Acid, alkaline, neutral
Garden uses
Notes
Chinese ground orchid (Bletilla striata) is a perennial for borders, containers, shade gardens, and woodland settings. It is hardy to USDA zone 5, or down to -20°F (-29°C). This plant likes part sun or part shade and average to moist, loamy soil. Pinkish-purple, cattleya-like flowers open in groups of three to seven on stems that rise to 18 inches. The arching, broad leaves look like grass, so they add texture to the bed even after the blooms fade.
Pairs well with Lady fern, Aureola Japanese forest grass, and Coralbells.
Native range
Asia.