Bletilla

Hardy Orchid is a genus of six species of semi-hard, perennial, terrestrial orchid with short, slender stems and attractive blossoms that often open successively. The genus is native to Southeast Asia. The plant's pseudo-bulbs resemble corms and usually sit at ground level. The white to purple flowers emerge from the center of the year's new growth in spring and early summer. The genus name honors Luis Blet, a Spanish apothecary who had a botanic garden in Algeciras, a city in the Cadiz region of Spain, towards the end of the 18th century.

The genus have a reputation as the easiest orchid for a beginner to grow. Hardy Orchid does best in organically rich, medium moisture, well-drained soil in part shade. Where the summer days are hot, some afternoon shade is essential. It is often grown in beds, borders, or pots. Plant corm-like pseudo-bulbs to 4 inches deep in spring. After flowering, continue to provide regular moisture until the leaves die down. This plant may not be winter hardy at USDA zone 5 and above and needs to be mulched in winter in colder climates. It will naturalize over time in optimum growing conditions by short rhizomes.

Diseases, Insect Pests, and Other Plant Problems:

Watch for aphids, white flies and mealy bugs.