Hardy Chinese Orchid 'Kuchibeni'

Bletilla striata 'Kuchibeni' is a beautiful and relatively easy-to-grow terrestrial orchid that is surprisingly hardy in many UK gardens. This cultivar is distinguished by its elegant white flowers, where the tips (the 'lips') are delicately tinged with a soft purplish-pink. The foliage consists of attractive, pleated, lance-shaped green leaves that look good until late summer. Reaching a height of 30-40cm, it forms clumps over time from its creeping tubers. It is rated H4, meaning it is hardy in much of the UK if given a sheltered spot and a winter mulch. It prefers a position in light or dappled shade and a soil that is rich in humus but drains well. Unlike many exotic orchids, Bletilla is quite robust and can be grown in a mixed border or a Woodland setting. It is important to ensure the soil doesn't dry out completely in summer while avoiding winter waterlogging. It also makes an excellent pot plant for a cool greenhouse or cold frame.

Sun: Partial shade.

Soil: Humus-rich, moist but well-drained soil.

Hardiness: H4 — down to −10°C.

Flowering: May, Jun, Jul.