Chinese Ground Orchid
Bletilla striata
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
18 inches
Width
12 inches
Light
Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
East Asia
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
The Story
Plant Bio
Bletilla striata, commonly known as the Chinese ground orchid, is a perennial plant native to East Asia. It features lanceolate leaves and produces spikes of orchid-like flowers. One of the hardiest and easiest-to-grow terrestrial orchids, readily naturalizing in garden settings. Its pleated, iris-like foliage provides texture even when not in bloom.
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck bulbs 2-3 inches deep in well-draining soil in early spring.
- Mist the soil regularly to keep it moist but not soggy.
- Place in partial shade for optimal growth.
- Fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring and summer.
- Mulch around the plant to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Divide clumps every 3-4 years in early spring or late fall.
Pro Tip
Ensure good drainage to prevent bulb rot and provide dappled sunlight for best flowering.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water consistently during the growing season 🌱
- Apply mulch to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature
- Divide clumps every few years to promote healthy growth
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent bulb rot ❌
- Do not plant in full sun, as it can scorch leaves
- Refrain from using heavy clay soil without amendment
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Chinese Ground Orchid questions
What zones can Chinese Ground Orchid grow in?
Chinese Ground Orchid is hardy in USDA Zones 5–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Chinese Ground Orchid deer resistant?
Yes — Chinese Ground Orchid is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Chinese Ground Orchid bloom?
Chinese Ground Orchid typically blooms in late spring to early summer through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Chinese Ground Orchid need full sun?
Chinese Ground Orchid does best in part shade.
More Bletilla to compare
Variegated Chinese Ground Orchid
Bletilla striata 'Albostriata'
White Chinese Ground Orchid
Bletilla striata 'Alba'
Kuchibeni Bletilla Japanese Ground Orchid
Bletilla striata 'Kuchibeni'
Murasaki Shikibu Chinese Ground Orchid
Bletilla striata 'Murasaki Shikibu'
Japanese Ground Orchid
Bletilla striata 'First Kiss'
Yokohama Ground Orchid
Bletilla x yokohama 'Kate'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Collections featuring this plant
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Chinese Ground Orchid with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
