Contents
Description
Gladiolus Charisma is a stunning hybrid variety of gladiolus that belongs to the gladiolus family. This plant is known for its beautiful blooms that come in shades of pink, purple, and white. It is a popular choice for gardeners because of its long blooming period that lasts from late spring to early fall. Gladiolus Charisma can grow up to 4 feet tall and is perfect for adding height to your garden.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Monocots |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Iridaceae |
| Genus | Gladiolus |
Appearance
The Gladiolus Charisma has sword-shaped leaves and tall flower spikes that can grow up to 4 feet tall. The blooms are funnel-shaped and come in shades of pink, purple, and white. Each bloom can have up to 20 individual flowers that are arranged in a double row along the stem. The flowers can be up to 5 inches across and have a sweet fragrance. Gladiolus Charisma bulbs are corms that are 2-3 inches in diameter.
Care Guide
Water: Gladiolus Charisma needs regular watering to keep the soil moist. Water the plant deeply once a week.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant every two weeks with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
Soil: Gladiolus Charisma prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Sunlight: The plant needs full sun to thrive. Place it in an area that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Hardiness Zones: Gladiolus Charisma is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Gladiolus Charisma is susceptible to thrips, aphids, and spider mites. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant can also be affected by fungal diseases such as botrytis and fusarium wilt. To prevent these diseases, avoid overcrowding the plants and provide good air circulation.
Habitat
Gladiolus Charisma is native to South Africa and is commonly found in grasslands and savannas. It prefers well-drained soils and full sun.
Question and Answer
Q: When should I plant Gladiolus Charisma bulbs?
A: Plant the bulbs in the spring after the last frost date in your area.
Q: How often should I fertilize Gladiolus Charisma?
A: Fertilize the plant every two weeks during the growing season.
Q: Can Gladiolus Charisma grow in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as the container is at least 12 inches deep.
Q: How long do Gladiolus Charisma blooms last?
A: The blooms can last up to two weeks.
Related Plants
- Gladiolus Byzantinus
- Gladiolus Nanus
- Gladiolus Primulinus
References
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/bulbs/gladiola/gladiolus-care.htm
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant/gladiolus-charisma
- https://www.gardensonline.com.au/gardenshed/plantfinder/show_382.aspx
- https://www.thespruce.com/gladiolus-bulbs-for-summer-flowers-1315835
