Acidanthera (ass-ih-DAN-ther-ah), also known as Gladiolus murielae or Acidanthera murielae, is a cormous perennial which belongs to the genus Gladiolus and is a member of the family Iridaceae.
This perennial summer-blooming bulb is native to the tropical mountains of East Africa, namely in regions of Ethiopia, Madagascar, Malawi, and Mozambique.
It’s commonly known for its cluster of fragrant, white star-shaped flowers with a maroon (sometimes purple or orange) blotch in the throat, sword-like leaves, and slender, narrow stems.
These Eastern Africa Native summer-blooming bulbs are widely cultivated with over 10,000 registered cultivars and 180 species of the genus.
Although its blooms greatly resemble orchids or lilies, this charming flowering plant is a gladiolus and not an orchid or lily.
Acidanthera goes by several common names, such as:
- Abyssinian Gladiolus
- Fragrant Gladiolus
- Gladiolus Callianthus
- Peacock Orchid
- Sword Lily
Quick Facts On Acidanthera Plants
- Family: Iridaceae
- Light: Full sun, bright partial shade
- Temperature: 75° degrees Fahrenheit
- Water: Keep soil moist
- Fertilizer: Balanced fertilizer – 10-10-10
- Propagation: Dividing and separating bulbs
- Common Problems: Root rot from overwatering. Aphids, Slugs, Thrips
Acidanthera Plant Care
How Big Do Acidanthera Plants Grow?
Acidantheras are tender perennials, growing from 24″ to 40″ inches or up to 2′ to 3′ feet high.
They bear upright foliage, on long, sword-shaped leaves, which are relatively soft with a spread of 10″ to 36″ inches long and tall, slender stems reaching up to 24″ inches.
These flowering plants have an annual growth of 50 to 60 cm and reach maturity at about 2 to 5 years.
When Does Acidanthera Plant Flower? Are The Flowers Fragrant?
An individual stem of an acidanthera produces at least six to 10 flowers, which blooms one at a time in succession, starting from the spike of the plant.
Each flower opens up, revealing an elegant white flower with a maroon or purple blotch at the base of the pointed petals.
The six petals together form an irregular star-shaped flower with a spread of about 3″ inches across.
The flowering period and bloom time for Acidanthera lasts for about three to four weeks, and each of its flowers lasts several days in full bloom.
They may be considered late bloomers, which often misleads some beginner gardeners into thinking their plant won’t ever bloom.
But have enough patience, and you will witness the acidanthera plants flowering, starting from mid or late summer (September) to late fall (Autumn).
The Abyssinian Gladiolus is definitely worth the wait and a sight to behold to people who want to marvel at their beauty.
The Acidanthera also gives off a fresh and aromatic scent that exudes a stronger smell at night.
What Are The Lighting Needs And Temperature Requirements?
The Acidanthera are sun-loving flowering plants, meaning they prefer the full sun and need lots of sunlight every day.
They grow best when planted in a sheltered location facing south, east, or west.
Remember that the amount and intensity of sunlight you will provide may also vary, depending on your location.
If you’re living in a temperate climate area, it is best to plant the acidanthera plant in slightly-shaded or part-shaded spots.
Filtering the strong rays of light with light curtains or shades is also a good approach if your spot provides too much sunlight.
In case your garden is shady, planting acidantheras in a pot or container is a good idea to consider so you can carry and move them depending on the season.
Since they love warm soil, they will thrive in a soil with a temperature ranging from 50˚ degrees Fahrenheit to 75˚ degrees Fahrenheit.
These bulbs are also particularly sensitive to cold or freezing temperatures, and it’s not advisable to plant them at a temperature below 28° degrees Fahrenheit.
Moreover, acidanthera plants grow as perennials in zones 7 to 11, meaning they can withstand a temperature of 30° degrees Fahrenheit to 40° degrees Fahrenheit in colder areas.
During winter, it’s also best to either dig up the acidanthera bulbs or grow them as annuals.
How And When To Water And Fertilize Acidanthera?
Your acidanthera needs regular watering and fertilizer feeding throughout the growing season.
Remember to keep the moist soil but avoid overwatering because it can cause root rot, especially when it is waterlogged.
When the frost arrives, scale back on watering and cover the acidanthera plants with mulch, such as compost, decaying leaves, or bark.
The ideal fertilizer is a 5-10-10 blend, 10-10-10 fertilizer, or a mineral bulbous fertilizer.
Remember to feed your plant according to the package instructions every two to three weeks and use them according to the product’s instructions.
What Is The Best Soil For Acidanthera And When Should You Transplant?
Acidanthera plants thrive in moist but well-drained soil with sand, loam, or chalk, and it must also be within a neutral, acidic, or alkaline PH balance.
When planting, remember to do these following steps:
- In an open garden, plant the acidanthera in groups of at least 7 to 9.
- Make sure to keep the soil moist but well-drained.
- Loosen the soil at least six inches before planting.
- Dig a hole around 15 to 20 cm deep using a spade or trowel.
- Plant the larger corms at a depth of 5″ to 6″ inches and the smaller corms at 4″ inches.
- Plant the acidanthera bulbs (pointy side up) roughly 5″ inches apart (center) in an open garden and 4″ inches in pots or containers for a full and pleasant look.
Does Acidanthera Need Special Grooming Or Maintenance?
Grooming of Acidanthera is not necessary because this flowering plant is low maintenance, but we recommend trimming or cutting down remaining or old foliage if the acidanthera plants are completely dry.
Before the winter arrives, remove and lift the corms from outdoors and store them in a warm and dry place at the end of autumn.
How To Propagate Fragrant Gladiolus?
The best way to propagate Fragrant Gladiolus is by removing the smaller bulbs you will see at the base of the plant and then saving the Acidanthera corms for storage until it is planting time.
Here are the steps to follow to store the bulbs properly for propagation.
- Wash the bulbs.
- Place the bulbs into a small container and dry them using a newspaper.
- Brush off remaining soil once they are dry.
- Store them in a paper bag or cover them with a newspaper.
- Fill the bag or container with peat moss
- Keep the bag or container in a dark, cool area throughout the winter.
- Take the bulbs out in spring and separate them for planting
Peacock Orchid Pests and Disease Problems
Just like any other flowering plant, the peacock orchid is also prone to pests and diseases.
A regular inspection is essential to help prevent infestation, so make sure you’re keeping a lookout for any sign of pests and diseases, such as:
- Aphids
- Slugs
- Spider mites
- Corm rot (particularly in wet conditions)
- Grey molds
- Thrips
Make sure to separate the infected plant from nearby plants because pests or diseases can be transmitted from one plant to another.
Neem oil or insecticidal soap will help treat the infestation.
Peacock Orchid Uses
Peacock orchids are easy to grow, and because of their beautiful flowers and enticing fragrance, they became a staple flowering plant in the summer garden.
They are often used as:
- A Cut flower: Their tall and slender stems make them an excellent fit for any flower arrangement and bouquets.
- Decoration: Clusters of them provide a variety of colors and a dramatic look when planted in container gardens or at the back of the border.