The Common Name for Ground Orchids

Hardy Chinese Orchids

• The hardy Chinese orchid, known botanically as Bletilla striata, is the easiest ground orchid species to grow, according to the University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service. Hardy Chinese orchids feature upright green leaves that are 18 inches long and 2 inches wide; in the spring, the plants produce five to 10, 2-inch, purplish-pink blossoms. Plant hardy Chinese orchids in a partially shaded location with rich, well-draining soil. Water the orchid weekly to prevent the soil from drying out and fertilize with a half-strength solution of a water-soluble fertilizer once a month spring through summer. Hardy Chinese orchids perform best in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 5 through 9.

Fragrant Ladies Tresses

• Spiranthes odorata, also known by their common name fragrant ladies tresses, are hardy ground orchids that thrive in marshes, bogs and moist woodland gardens in USDA plant hardiness zones 5 through 9. Fragrant ladies tresses are prized for their small, white, hooded blossoms which bloom on attractive vertical spikes. Plant fragrant ladies tresses in partially shaded locations with moisture-retentive soil. Water frequently to maintain constantly moist soil. Fertilize monthly with a half-strength solution of a water-soluble orchid fertilizer from spring through mid-fall to encourage healthy root development and prolific blooming.

Purple Fringed Orchids

• Purple fringed orchids come in two varieties: small, known botanically as Platanthera psycodes, and large, known as Platanthera grandiflora, which produce 1/2-inch and 1-inch blossoms, respectively. Plant purple fringed orchids in full-sun locations with fertile, damp soil. Water the purple fringed orchids once or twice a week, or as often as necessary, to keep the soil consistently damp. Fertilize purple fringed orchids in the early spring with a specially formulated orchid fertilizer to promote vigorous growth. Purple fringed orchids can be grown in gardens or home landscapes in USDA zones 3 through 8.

Nun's Orchids

• Nun's orchids, Phaius tankervilliae or Phaius grandifolius, are named for their large, hooded brown, cream and purple blossoms that cover the plant in the winter. Plant nun's orchids in partial-sun locations that have well-draining soil and are lightly shaded during the hottest parts of the day. Water newly planted nun's orchids as often as required to maintain evenly moist soil. When the season's new foliage matures, reduce the frequency of watering and allow the top 2 inches of soil to dry slightly before you irrigate again. Fertilize the orchids with an orchid fertilizer every two weeks while the plant is actively growing. Nun's orchids perform best in USDA zones 8 through 11.