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Genus Acidanthera (Gladiolus)

Acidanthera Acidanthera primulinus Photo/Illustration: Scott Kunst
ass-ih-DAN-ther-ah Common Name: Gladiolus Synonyms: Gladiolus, Homoaglossum
A genus of 180 species and over 10,000 cultivars, Acidanthera are cormous perennials, mainly from South Africa, that are grown for their showy, open funnel-shaped flowers that bloom from spring to early autumn, depending on the species. Flowers open from the bottom of the spike to the top. Iris-like leaves in fan formation can grow from 10 to 36 inches long. They are best planted in clumps in a border or in rows in a cutting garden. Tender species can be lifted and stored over winter. There are three main classifications: Grandiflorus, Nanus, and Primulinus.
 Noteworthy characteristics: Showy spikes of flowers, in nearly every color of the rainbow. More than 10,000 cultivars are available.
 Care: Gladiolus need fertile, well-drained soil in full sun or part shade. Plant in spring, placing the corms 3 to 6 inches deep and just as far apart. To extend the bloom season, make successive plantings. Lift corms of tender species 6 weeks after bloom, cut off the foliage, dip the corm in fungicide, and dry for a few weeks. Then store in a dry and frost-free location.
 Propagation: If species is hardy, sow seed in containers in a cold frame in spring. If tender, sow seed at 59°F in spring. Separate cormlets when dormant.
 Problems: Gladiolus corm rot, gray mold, viruses, aster yellows, spider mites, thrips, and aphids.

Species, varieties and cultivars for genus Acidanthera

Acidanthera bicolor var. murielae
(Abyssinian gladiolus, Sword lily) Be the first to rate this plant
Hardiness Zones: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11

Each flowering stem of this bulb produces eight to twelve flowers that open consecutively over a period of three to four weeks. The flowers are fragrant, white, and starry, and have a conspicuous red/maroon center. Its linear, sword-shaped, 2- to 3-foot-tall leaves resemble those of Gladiolus, but are more slender and graceful.