Wand Flower, Acidanthera
gladiolus tristis
Also known as: ["Acidanthera bicolor","Gladiolus callianthus"]
Overview
A perennial bulbous plant known for its fragrant, white flowers with dark centers, native to South Africa.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","seasonal color change"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Iridaceae |
| Genus: | Gladiolus |
| Botanical Name: | Gladiolus tristis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in a sunny spot with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°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; cactus or bulb mix works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering; annually after foliage dies back.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; focus on removing dead or damaged parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade in hot climates; adjust exposure based on intensity.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sun; protect from harsh midday sun; ensure good air circulation to prevent scorching.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plants for even light; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid direct sun on leaves during peak hours.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water at the base to avoid foliage; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid overwatering during dormancy.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with added organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use raised beds for better drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler nights; avoid prolonged exposure below 50°F (10°C) or above 90°F (32°C).
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in heat.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Apply fertilizer at half-strength; avoid foliage contact; fertilize after watering to prevent root burn.
Propagation
Methods
Corm division; offsets (cormels) can also be propagated.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Separate cormels from parent corm.
- Plant 2–3 inches deep.
- Water lightly.
- Provide warmth and light.
Best Time: Late winter or early spring before active growth begins.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F/18–24°C), humid, and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also use peat moss.
Hormone
Not typically required for corm division; optional for cormels.
Timeline
Cormels may take 2–3 years to flower; divided corms can flower in the first season.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, clean pots, well-draining soil, labels.
Quick Tips
Store corms in a cool, dry place before planting; ensure cormels are firm and healthy.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut flower spikes at the base; trim foliage only after it yellows or browns.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flower spikes to encourage reblooming; trim dead foliage after dormancy.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruners or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; cut at the base; avoid removing healthy foliage prematurely.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Late winter or early spring before growth resumes.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter if needed.
Method
Remove corms carefully; trim dead roots; replant at the same depth in fresh, well-draining soil.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when corms become crowded; divide corms during repotting.
Checklist
Inspect corms for rot; use fresh soil; ensure good drainage; plant at proper depth.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, ensuring root zone saturation; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal risk.
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; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf burn in excessive heat; stunted growth or bud drop in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause root damage or flower bud abortion in temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Provide frost protection; move containers indoors; use row covers for garden plants.
Hot Stress
Leaves wilt or scorch; flowers may fade quickly; growth may become leggy.
Solution: Increase watering; provide afternoon shade; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; water before application; avoid overfertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 3–4 weeks during active growth; reduce or stop in dormancy.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation if they ingest parts of Gladiolus tristis. The corms and leaves contain compounds that can cause digestive upset in felines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Gladiolus tristis can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The corms and leaves are the primary toxic parts, causing irritation to the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicGladiolus tristis contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested. The corms and leaves are the most toxic parts due to their higher concentration of these compounds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I care for Gladiolus tristis?
A: Plant bulbs in well-drained soil in full sun. Water moderately and provide support for tall stems.
Q: Are Gladiolus tristis flowers fragrant?
A: Yes, they are known for their strong, sweet fragrance, especially in the evening.
Q: Is Gladiolus tristis toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested, causing gastrointestinal upset.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Iridaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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