Contents
Description
Gladiolus Murielae, commonly known as Abyssinian Sword Lily, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Iridaceae family. It is native to Africa and grows up to 1 meter tall. Gladiolus Murielae produces fragrant white flowers with green stripes on the petals that bloom in late summer or early fall. The flowers grow on a spike that can have up to 20 blooms on each stem. Gladiolus Murielae is a popular ornamental plant that is often used in cut flower arrangements.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Monocotyledons |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Iridaceae |
| Genus | Gladiolus |
Appearance
Gladiolus Murielae has sword-shaped leaves that are green and grow up to 60 cm long. The flowers grow on a spike that can be up to 1 meter tall. Each stem can have up to 20 blooms that are white with green stripes on the petals. The flowers have a fragrant scent that is often described as sweet and spicy. The plant blooms in late summer or early fall and the flowers can last up to two weeks.
Care Guide
Water: Gladiolus Murielae requires regular watering during the growing season. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Soil: Gladiolus Murielae prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Sunlight: The plant requires full sun to grow and bloom properly.
Hardiness Zones: Gladiolus Murielae is hardy in USDA zones 7-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Gladiolus Murielae is susceptible to several pests and diseases, including:
- Thrips: These tiny insects can damage the flowers and leaves of the plant.
- Mites: Mites can cause discoloration and distortion of the leaves.
- Bulb rot: This fungal disease can cause the bulbs to rot and the plant to die.
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease can cause brown spots on the leaves.
Habitat
Gladiolus Murielae is native to Africa and can be found growing in grasslands and rocky areas. The plant prefers well-draining soil and full sun.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Gladiolus Murielae?
A: The plant requires regular watering during the growing season. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged.
Q: What fertilizer should I use on my Gladiolus Murielae?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Gladiolus Murielae?
A: Gladiolus Murielae is hardy in USDA zones 7-11.
Q: What pests and diseases should I look out for on my Gladiolus Murielae?
A: Gladiolus Murielae is susceptible to thrips, mites, bulb rot, and leaf spot.
Related Plants
- Gladiolus
- Gladiolus tristis
- Gladiolus illyricus
- Gladiolus communis
References
- “Gladiolus Murielae.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 21 October 2021, <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=130798&isprofile=0&basic=gladiolus%20murielae>.
- “Gladiolus Murielae.” PlantZAfrica. Accessed 21 October 2021, <http://pza.sanbi.org/gladiolus-murielae>.
