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Bletilla striata

Species of orchid From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Bletilla striata
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Bletilla striata, known as hyacinth orchid[2] or Chinese ground orchid,[3] is a species of flowering plant in the orchid family Orchidaceae, native to Japan, Korea, Myanmar (Burma), and China (Anhui, Fujian, Gansu, Guangdong, Guangxi, Guizhou, Hubei, Hunan, Jiangsu, Jiangxi, Shaanxi, Sichuan, Zhejiang).[1][4] It is most commonly found growing in clumps alongside grassy slopes with sandy soil.[5]

Quick Facts Scientific classification, Binomial name ...

The Latin specific epithet striata means "striped", in reference to the ribbed leaves.[6]

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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.[7]

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.[2]

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.[7]

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.[8]

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Uses

Bletilla striata is used in Asian traditional medicine for problems with the lining of the alimentary canal, such as ulcers.[9][non-primary source needed]

It is also used as a natural glue for making silk strings for traditional Chinese instruments such as the guqin.[10]

References

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