Gladiolus
gladiolus gunnisii
Also known as: ["Sword Lily","Gladiola"]
Overview
A perennial flowering plant with tall spikes of colorful, funnel-shaped flowers, native to Africa.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Iridaceae |
| Genus: | Gladiolus |
| Botanical Name: | Gladiolus gunnisii |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed in full sun, protected from strong winds
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent corm rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering; annually in late fall or winter.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; focus on removing dead or diseased parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); partial shade in extreme heat. Adjust in summer to prevent scorching.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; provide shade during peak afternoon heat; monitor for leaf burn.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate pot for even light; use sheer curtains in hot climates; avoid direct midday sun in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water at the base to avoid foliage disease; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid overwatering during dormancy.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with added organic matter
pH: 6.0–7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter.
Temperature
60–75°F (15–24°C) during active growth; tolerate cooler temperatures in dormancy.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 weeks during growing season, monthly in fall
Dilute fertilizer to half strength; fertilize after watering; avoid foliage contact.
Propagation
Methods
Corm division; offsets (cormels) can also be used.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Separate cormels or divide corms.
- Plant 4–6 inches deep.
- Water lightly.
- Provide warmth.
Best Time: Late winter or early spring before active growth begins.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F), humid, and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand.
Hormone
Not necessary for corm division; optional for cormels.
Timeline
Cormels may take 1–2 years to flower; divided corms can flower in the same season.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, gloves, small trowel, well-draining mix.
Quick Tips
Store cormels in a cool, dry place until planting; ensure corms are firm and healthy.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut flower spikes at the base; trim foliage to ground level in dormancy.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flower spikes to encourage reblooming; trim dead foliage in dormancy.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves, disinfectant.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; cut cleanly; dispose of debris; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Late winter or early spring before growth resumes.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove corms carefully; trim dead roots; replant 4–6 inches deep in fresh mix.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when corms become crowded; essential for healthy growth.
Checklist
Inspect corms for rot; use fresh soil; ensure proper depth; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, ensuring the root zone is moistened. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during active growth; reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in dormancy. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf yellowing or browning in heat; stunted growth or bud drop in cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause root rot if soil remains wet; can damage flower buds.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; ensure well-draining soil; cover in frost events.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, reduced flowering; may cease growth in extreme heat.
Solution: Provide shade; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid dormant period.
Fertilizing Method
Balanced liquid fertilizer (10-10-10) every 2–4 weeks during active growth; cease in dormancy.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal issues if they consume parts of Gladiolus gunnisii. The bulbs and leaves are the most toxic components.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Gladiolus gunnisii can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The bulbs and leaves are particularly problematic due to their higher toxicity levels.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicGladiolus gunnisii contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested. The bulbs and leaves are the primary toxic parts due to their higher concentration of these compounds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are Gladiolus gunnisii toxic to pets?
A: Yes, they are mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should Gladiolus be watered?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Q: Do Gladiolus gunnisii require full sun?
A: Yes, they thrive in full sun with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Iridaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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