Scientific Name: Bletilla striata’Kuchibeni’
Common Name: Hardy
Ground Orchid
Hardiness: Zones 5 – 10
Ornamental Features:
Bletilla
are hardy terrestrial orchids. They have pleated leaves with brightly colored flowers.
‘Kuchibeni’ has purple flowers on stalks that are up to 15 inches tall. The
rhizomes spread slowly and eventually form a nice mass. Flowers emerge in
spring and last for many weeks.
Applications:
Bletilla
are durable and hardy spring flowering orchids preferring a moist rich soil.
They can be used in beds or in containers. Flowers can be cut for arrangements.
Pot Size and Finish Time:
Best
suited for a 6” pot size and will finish in 4 to 6 months.
Culture:
Light: Part sun to light shade.
Temperature: 60° to 80° F
Soil
/ Watering:
Use a well draining professional mix that is
slightly acidic, keep evenly moist.
Fertilizer: Liquid feed with complete fertilizer at 150-200 ppm (N) with each irrigation. For top dress or soil incorporation, follow
label rates for medium feeders.
Pest/Disease Problems:
Employ good sanitation practices to avoid fungal
and bacterial pathogens. A preventative drench with a soil fungicide will help
to prevent root rot.
For Availability and More Information:
Contact David McDonald
Mount
(352)
385-2663 office / (352) 385-2660 fax