Bletilla striata
Species of orchid
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Through Species, Flowering plant and Binomial nomenclature
The Latin specific epithet striata means "striped", in reference to the ribbed leaves.
Description
Bletilla striata is a terrestrial orchid with pleated, spear-shaped leaves. It breaks dormancy in early spring, with each tuber of the previous year potentially sending out multiple shoots. These growths mature over the course of a couple months and eventually bear 3-7 magenta-pink flowers.
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Cultivation
In cultivation in the UK it is hardy in sheltered locations down to −10 °C (14 °F). It has gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.
In the U.S. it may be grown in USDA hardiness zones 5–9, although a winter mulching for plants grown in zone 5 is recommended.
Like most terrestrial orchids, it drops its leaves as it enters winter dormancy; however, it tolerates moisture during this period much better than most others. Nevertheless, it is encouraged to grow Bletilla striata in a well-draining, humus-rich mix.
Uses
Bletilla striata is used in Asian traditional medicine for problems with the lining of the alimentary canal, such as ulcers.
It is also used as a natural glue for making silk strings for traditional Chinese instruments such as the guqin.