Pleione Tongariro bulbs

Pleione Tongariro is a beautiful terrestrial orchid, easy to grow in protected gardens, whose vivid fuchsia pink flowers bring punch to spring displays.

This bristly, rhizomatous bulbous plant develops a single 15 cm (6in) long, lanceolate, elliptical and folded, medium green leaf. From April to May, 10 cm (4in) stems bear solitary 8 cm (3in), vivid fuchsia pink flowers with a trumpet-shaped, brown-spotted lip, fringed at the edges.

Originating from China and Taiwan, the Pleione Tongariro is semi-hardy. In open ground, this small orchid likes an acidic, humus-bearing, moist and well-drained or porous soil, in a partially shaded or sunny position further north. In winter, place a layer of dead leaves or a cloche to protect the bulbs. Pot cultivation is possible.

Pleione Tongariro adds an original touch to miniature gardens, shaded rockeries or in groups at the foot of a tree.

Tip: Be careful after flowering, it is essential not to let the soil dry out, as this is when the pseudobulb grows and multiplies.