How to identify Urn orchids (Bletilla)

How to identify Urn orchids (Bletilla)

Urn orchids exhibits a modest growth pattern, featuring short, slender stems typically up to 18 inches (45 cm) in height. The defining characteristics include conspicuous pseudo-bulbs at ground level, which resemble corms. In the spring and early summer, urn orchids produces an array of blossoms, varying from pristine white to various shades of purple. The flowers, notable for their attractive appearance, blossom successively, unfurling from the center of new growth. These physical traits are quintessential for identification.

Lifespan: Perennial

Leaf Type: Deciduous

Quickly Identify Urn orchids

Pseudo-bulbs at ground level resemble corms for easy identification.

Terminal racemes with vibrant pink-purple 2-inch flowers that open successively.

Upright, pleated, sword-shaped leaves up to 12 inches long with parallel veins.

Slender stem with dilated basal pseudo-bulbs, greenish to reddish in color, reaching 12 inches.

Detailed Traits of Urn orchids

Leaf Features

Urn orchids produces 3-5 upright, pleated, sword-shaped leaves, which can reach lengths of up to 12 inches (30 cm). These leaves are mostly narrow and exhibit a distinct sheathing at the base. The pleated texture provides a unique, corrugated appearance. The leaves are typically green, with a smooth surface and parallel vein patterns running along their length, contributing to their identifiable sword-like shape.

Learn About the Leaf Glossary

Flower Features

Urn orchids produces striking small blooms that resemble cattleya orchids. The flowers display vibrant pink-purple petals and grow in terminal racemes bearing up to 12 blooms. Each flower spans approximately 2 inches (5 cm) in width and often opens successively, extending the blooming period. The petal arrangement is intricate and delicate, enhancing their visual appeal, although they lack a notable scent. These features make the blooms of urn orchids easily identifiable and admired by plant enthusiasts.

Learn About the Flower Glossary

Stem Features

The stem of urn orchids is slender and characterized by dilated basal pseudo-bulbs. It is short, erect, and leafy, encased by tubular sheaths at the base. The texture is smooth and firm, with a greenish hue that can turn slightly reddish in strong sunlight. Typically reaching up to 12 inches (30 cm) in height, the stem does not branch and supports the plant's foliage efficiently, distinguishing itself with its pseudo-bulbous base and upright growth habit.

Learn About the Stem Glossary

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