Bletilla Striata

One of my favorite orchids and an easy one to grow here in Georgia is Bletilla striata, a species from China and Japan

IMG_1028

Bletilla striata is very common in yards around Atlanta–This species survives the winters here and can grow into large, impressive clumps–

IMG_1025

I grow mine in terra cotta pots–This year they wintered under the pecan tree in the yard, covered by a layer of mulch–Now they sit with other pots of Bletillas on the steps of the deck–There they get dappled sunlight–I love the ruffles on the lip–

IMG_1024

Bletillas are inexpensive compared to other orchids, and well worth choosing for the yard–The pleated leaves are a striking landscape feature when they are not in bloom–