Abyssinian gladiolus Gladiolus murielae

Water

Abyssinian gladioli prefer consistent moisture during their growing season. Water them deeply when the top inch of soil becomes dry, which typically equates to about 1 inch of water per week. To avoid overwatering, use a garden hose or watering can to slowly soak the soil at the base of the plant, and ensure proper drainage to prevent root rot. During the blooming period, you might need to increase the frequency of watering to support their vibrant flowers. Cut back on watering once the flowers have died back and allow the corms to dry out before winter storage.

Light

Abyssinian gladioli thrive in full sun conditions, requiring at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and flowering. The best location for these plants is in an area where they are exposed to unfiltered sunlight throughout the day. However, in extremely hot climates, they may benefit from light afternoon shade to prevent scorching.

Temperature

Abyssinian gladioli perform best in temperatures ranging from 60 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit, although they can tolerate slightly higher temperatures while in bloom. They should not be exposed to temperatures below 28 degrees Fahrenheit, as freezing can damage the corms. Ideal growth conditions are achieved when nighttime temperatures are cooler than daytime temperatures to mimic their natural environment.

Pruning

Pruning Abyssinian gladioli is mainly done to deadhead spent flowers and to cut back foliage after it has yellowed and died back naturally, promoting healthier plants and better blooms for the next season. Deadhead the flowers as they fade to encourage more blooms. Once all the flowers on a stalk have gone, you can cut the stalk back to the leaves to keep the garden tidy. After the first frost in fall or when the leaves turn yellow, cut the foliage back to about 2 inches above the soil and dig up the corms for winter storage.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Abyssinian gladiolus thrives in well-draining, sandy loam soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.5. An ideal soil mix can be created using two parts loam, one part sand or perlite, and one part peat or compost to provide organic matter and nutrients.

Repotting

Abyssinian gladioli corms should be lifted and divided every 3-4 years to prevent overcrowding and maintain plant vigor. Corms are best replanted in the spring.

Humidity & Misting

Abyssinian gladioli prefer moderate humidity levels but are adaptable to typical household humidity conditions found between 40-60%.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Provide bright light, well-drained soil, and moderate water.

• Outdoor

  Plant corms in spring, full sun, well-drained soil.

• Hardiness zone

  7-10 USDA

Life cycle

Gladiolus murielae, commonly known as Abyssinian gladiolus or fragrant gladiolus, begins its life cycle as a corm, a bulb-like storage organ that remains dormant through winter. In spring, the corm sprouts and produces a sword-like foliage followed by a flowering stalk with multiple blooms. After flowering in late summer, the plant sets seed, which can be dispersed and potentially give rise to new plants. Meanwhile, the corm can produce small offsets or daughter corms that can be separated after the foliage dies back and used to propagate the plant. As the weather cools and the plant finishes its growing season, the foliage turns yellow and withers, and the corm enters a state of dormancy. The corm survives underground throughout the winter, ready to begin the cycle anew when conditions are favorable.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring to early summer

• The most popular method for propagating Abyssinian gladiolus, also known as Gladiolus murielae or Acidanthera, is through the division of its corms. This process is best done in the spring, just before the growing season begins. Gardeners should carefully dig up the corms after the foliage has died back and the plant has gone dormant, typically in the fall. The corms, which resemble bulbs, can then be separated from the main plant; they should be firm and free from any signs of decay or damage. Once separated, the corms are stored in a cool, dry place through winter and then replanted about 3 to 4 inches deep (7.62 to 10.16 cm) in well-draining soil and spaced approximately 6 inches (15.24 cm) apart in the spring. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged to encourage growth. New plants will typically arise from these corms within a few weeks as long as the temperature stays above 50 degrees Fahrenheit (10 degrees Celsius).