Gladiolus dalenii

Family: Iridaceae (Iris family)

Common names: African gladiolus (E); uhlakahle (Z); Papegaaigladiolus (A);

Native to: South Africa

Bulb

A summer-growing plant that produces striking orange and yellow flowers on tall stalks

Gladiolus dalenii

DECIDUOUS

FULL SUN

SEMI-SHADE

MEDIUM WATER REQUIREMENTS

FAST GROWER

ATTRACTS BIRDS

ATTRACTS INSECTS

FLOWERING TIME:

J F M A M J J A S O N D

FRUITING TIME:

J F M A M J J A S O N D

DESCRIPTION

A striking summer-growing corm with grey-green sword-shaped leaves. A mature plant produces up to seven flower stalks each bearing approximately 12 bi-coloured orange and yellow flower heads arranged alternately along the length. The flowering period spans 2-3 weeks with the lower flowers opening first. The flowers produce copious amounts of nectar which attract sunbirds which are responsible for pollinating the plant.

The stunning flowers make excellent cut flowers.

NATURAL HABITAT & DISTRIBUTION

Grassland, Bushveld

WILDLIFE & ECOLOGICAL BENEFITS

Attracts bees and nectar feeding birds, notably sunbirds who are responsible for the pollination.
The corms are eaten by bushpigs and porcupines.

PLANTBOOK