Bletillas or Hyacinth Orchids

The Bletilla striata or Hyacinth Orchids are true hardy terrestrial orchids that bring a touch of originality to summer flowerbeds. With a bushy and dense habit, they bear long deciduous leaves that resemble those of Gladiolus, in a medium green shade, and 30cm (0 and 12in) long flowering stems with a cluster of 6 to 10 pink or  on rarer occasions, white flowers.

In spring, garden orchids are planted in rather acidic, moist, well-drained soil or in pots with an equal mix of potting soil, garden soil, and sand. They should be watered frequenlty in summer and fertilized with liquid fertilizer every 3 waterings. In severe winters, make sure to mulch the plants remaining in the ground and protect potted plants from frost. Bletilla striata easily multiply and make great companions for Hostas.