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Description
Gladiolus Angustus, also known as the “Narrow-leaved Gladiolus,” is a cormous perennial plant native to South Africa. It belongs to the Iridaceae family and is a popular ornamental plant due to its showy flowers. The plant can grow up to 60cm tall and produces narrow, sword-shaped leaves that are arranged in a fan-like pattern. The leaves are light green in color and can reach up to 40cm in length. The flowers bloom in late spring or early summer and are typically pink or purple in color.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Monocotyledonae |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Iridaceae |
| Genus | Gladiolus |
Appearance
Gladiolus Angustus is a tall, slender plant with narrow, sword-shaped leaves that are arranged in a fan-like pattern. The leaves are light green in color and can reach up to 40cm in length. The flowers bloom in late spring or early summer and are typically pink or purple in color. The flowers are arranged in a spike-like inflorescence that can reach up to 30cm in length. Each spike can produce up to 12 flowers, each with three petals and three sepals.
Care Guide
Water
Gladiolus Angustus requires consistently moist soil during the growing season. Water the plant deeply once a week, or more frequently during hot, dry weather.
Fertilization
Fertilize the plant with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Soil
Gladiolus Angustus prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. A soil pH of 6.0 to 7.0 is ideal for this plant.
Sunlight
Gladiolus Angustus requires full sun to partial shade. Plant the bulbs in a location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight per day.
Hardiness Zones
Gladiolus Angustus is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 10. In colder climates, the bulbs should be dug up and stored indoors during the winter months.
Common Pests & Diseases
Gladiolus Angustus is susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including thrips, aphids, and Fusarium wilt. Thrips and aphids can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Fusarium wilt can be prevented by planting disease-free bulbs in well-drained soil.
Habitat
Gladiolus Angustus is native to South Africa, where it grows in grasslands and open woodland areas. The plant prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate dry periods.
Question and Answer
Q: When should I plant Gladiolus Angustus bulbs?
A: Plant the bulbs in the fall, 4 to 6 inches deep and 6 to 8 inches apart.
Q: How long do the flowers bloom?
A: The flowers bloom for 2 to 3 weeks.
Q: Can Gladiolus Angustus be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Gladiolus Angustus can be grown in containers filled with well-drained potting soil.
Q: How do I propagate Gladiolus Angustus?
A: Propagate the plant by dividing the bulbs in the fall, after the foliage has died back.
Related Plants
- Gladiolus alatus
- Gladiolus carmineus
- Gladiolus dalenii
- Gladiolus huttonii
References
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant/gladiolus-angustus-narrow-leaved-gladiolus
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/bulbs/gladiola/gladiolus-angustus-care.htm
- https://www.bhg.com/gardening/plant-dictionary/bulb/gladiolus/
