Hyacinth Orchid
Bletilla striata
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Pl. DDA9 — Bletilla striata
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IOverview
Overview
The Hyacinth Orchid (Bletilla striata) is a delicate species native to the eastern regions of China, Japan, Korea, and Myanmar. This plant thrives in partial sun or shade with moist soil, making it adaptable to various environments within its native range. Known for its edible bulb, which can be consumed raw or cooked, the Hyacinth Orchid has been utilized by local communities for culinary purposes. One distinctive feature of this orchid is its light green, lance-shaped leaves that emerge from a rosette at the base, creating an elegant appearance. Its hardiness spans zones 5-8, allowing it to grow in a variety of climates within its native habitats.
Quick answers
What is Hyacinth Orchid?
The Hyacinth Orchid (Bletilla striata) is a delicate species native to the eastern regions of China, Japan, Korea, and Myanmar. This plant thrives in partial sun or shade with moist soil, making it adaptable to various environments within its native range.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Hyacinth Orchid (Bletilla striata) thrives in partial sun to shade and prefers moist soil of medium fertility. It is hardy in zones 5-8 and grows to about 0.4 meters tall. For propagation, divide the bulbs in early spring or fall. Harvest edible parts from mature plants for culinary use.
Light
Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Medium
Hardiness
5-8
Mature size
0.4 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Hyacinth Orchid for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple planting of Hyacinth Orchid to gain experience in orchid care.
- 1
What you'll need
A small pot, well-draining soil mix, and the Hyacinth Orchid bulbs.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in early spring or late fall when temperatures are mild.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use a pot with drainage holes. Mix perlite into regular potting soil for better drainage.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Place the bulbs on top of the soil, cover them lightly, and water gently.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep the soil moist but not soggy. Place in a partially shaded area to avoid direct sunlight.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water when the soil feels dry to the touch. Provide partial shade during summer months.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
No need for harvesting; focus on maintaining healthy growth and removing dead leaves.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, placing in full sun, using heavy soil without drainage
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Bulb
Edible uses: Gum
Other uses:GumInk
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
7 native · 1 introduced
Distribution
7 native · 1 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 7 native· 1 introduced
Asia4 regions
native (4)ChinaJapanMyanmarSouth Korea
Broader regions
native:Nansei-shoto
introduced:Maryland
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
About this entry
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