PlantLife Online

Plant Detail

Abyssinian Gladiolus

Scientific name	Gladiolus murielae
Common name	Abyssinian Gladiolus
Type	Perennials
Variety	Perennial
USDA Zone hardiness	8a - 11+
Exposure	Full sun
Height	1 to 2'
Spread	2 to 3'

The Abyssinian Gladiolus is prized for its fragrant, evening blooming throughout the late summer and into fall. Its white flowers have a maroon or chocolate center, the narrow sword-shpaed leaves are arranged in a fan pattern from the base. The upright clumping habit makes this summer bulb great for boarders or in planters. Plant the Abyssinian gladiolus corms in fertile well-drained soil in full-sun, in hotter climates gladioli will benefit from afternoon shade, regular watering during growth. In colder climate gardens remove corms from the soil six weeks after blooming, cut the stem near the corm, dip the corms in fungicide and allow to dry for a couple weeks then remove and discard the older corms and store in a dry frost free location. Replant the corms in the garden in the spring. Fertilize gladioli with a liquid fertilizer high in potash every couple weeks during blooming. Gladiolus are native to southeast, northwest, and East Africa as well as the Mediterranean.