by AMANDA MOON
For many of us the idea of growing orchids in our homes can seem a daunting task. They are well-known in botanical circles, for example, as being both fussy and temperamental.
There is however one orchid that’s easy enough for everyone to grow, even those with the brownest of thumbs. Known as the Chinese ground orchid (Bletilla striata), this beauty will flourish with little care in any shady garden, blessing us with beautiful purple flowers for about six weeks each spring.
Zilker Botanical Gardens has nurtured several stands of these orchids for many years near their clubhouse. Through killing frosts and even the great drought of 2011 they have still continued to bloom as predicted (albeit two weeks early this year).
For a long time this hardy orchid was difficult to find locally, usually showing up in specialty orchid nurseries and plant shows. Finally this year it has become available in most of our local nurseries.
The ground orchid most commonly available has purple flowers on two-inch spikes. White flowering species are also on the market, as well as newer hybrids.
When not in bloom the plant resembles a lighter green, softer cast iron plant, though with none of the browning on the top of the leaves that cast irons are known for. The foliage stays until the first frost when the plant goes dormant, pushing up new growth in early spring, followed by flowers.
Chinese ground orchids spread by rhizomes, and will make a nice clump in a few years. They can be allowed to multiply for years in the same spot or divided to spread to other areas of the yard (or share?) by splitting up the rhizomes in early spring before they start to put on new growth.
The best place to grow these beauties is in a shady garden, although some morning sun is okay. Water regularly to ensure the best growth and flowering length, and be sure to give them excellent drainage, as their fleshy stems will rot in too much moisture. However if you forget about them by accident during a drought, they are tough enough to go for several weeks without water.
Fertilize several times per season using a good organic fertilizer and mulch to retain soil moisture and keep the soil cooler in the summertime heat.
If you would rather grow your ground orchids in a pot, use a high quality potting soil mix. Your local nurseries will be able to point you in the direction of the best soil for your orchid. Make sure the pot is large enough for the plant to grow and expand, but not too large that there will be a tendency to over water. Also be sure to feed your orchid regularly because plants in containers require more fertilizer than garden plants.
Winter protection is not necessary here unless we dip into the lower teens or single digits as we did for a few years.
Chinese ground orchids are a great, easy-care addition to any shade landscape, whether you are a flowerbed gardener or just love to have beautiful pots on your porch. Very little TLC is required to enjoy years of flowers and greenery, and to be able to tell people that yes, you can grow orchids.
Happy gardening everyone!
Amanda Moon works with Chris Winslow at It’s About Thyme Garden Center. If you have a gardening question, send it to Chris or Amanda via email: iathyme@yahoo.com. (Please put ‘Ask Chris/Amanda’ in the subject line.) Or mail your letter or postcard to: It’s About Thyme: 11726 Manchaca Road, Austin, TX 78748
