ABSTRACT
The plants in genus Bletilla Reichb. f. possess multiple medical uses in traditional Chinese medicine. However, most wild plants of this genus are critically endangered. In this paper, we searched and combed the origins of these medicinal plants, compared and identified the common adulterants. To explore the suitable soil, climate, and geographical conditions for the artificial cultivation of Bletilla Reichb. f. plants, we investigated and described the natural habitats in different spatial scales, collected and sorted out the information of geographical distribution for the wild plants. We also systematically summarized and prospected the technology of artificial breeding for genus Bletilla Reichb. f.. Based on the characteristics of the reproductive system and breeding features for Bletilla Reichb. f., the seed aseptic germination is considered to be the most appropriate breeding method. Therefore, the development of a new-generation technology for direct seeding germination and the breakthrough of the key cultivation technology will greatly improve the reproductive efficiency of Bletilla Reichb. f., resulting to change the mode of plant-resource supply. The formulation of more specific protective measures together with the acceleration of the research on artificial reproduction technology and the enhancement of the basic research on the resources and reproduction, will facilitate to improve the efficiency of the protection and utilization for the Bletilla Reichb. f. plants, which shows the essential significance for sustainable utilization of medicinal resources of Bletilla Reichb. f..