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Abyssinian gladiolus

Acidanthera bicolor var. murielae

ass-ih-DAN-ther-ah BY-kul-or variety mur-ee-EL-ay Audio

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.

CareProvide moist, well-drained soil in full sun. Plant corms in spring, when soil is warm, to a depth of 5 inches. Where not hardy, harvest corms in fall. Dry, clean, and store them in a cool, dry place with ventilation. This plant appreciates regular feeding to produce the most flowers.

PropagationSeparate corms, and small bulblets, in fall.

  • Genus : Acidanthera
  • Plant Height : 1 to 3 feet
  • Plant Width : 1 to 3 feet
  • Zones : 10, 11, 8, 9
  • Moisture : Adaptable
  • Plant Type : Bulbs
  • Uses : Containers
  • Bloom Time : Fall, Late Summer, Summer
  • Characteristics : Fragrant Flowers
  • Light : Full Sun
  • Maintenance : Low
  • Plant Seasonal Interest : Summer Interest
  • Flower Color : White

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