Photo of Gladiolus alatus flower by Annie's Annuals & Perennials

Photo by Annie's Annuals & Perennials

Used with permission, all rights reserved

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Gladiolus alatus

Plant type

bulb / corm / tuber

size

  • H: 6"-10"
  • W: 6"-9"

planting zones

  • 9a-10b

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Gladiolus alatus plant details

Gladiolus alatus is a broadleaf deciduous bulb / corm / tuber with green foliage. In spring orange flowers emerge. Attracts hummingbirds. Grows well with sun and low water. Drought tolerant once established. Prefers to be dry in summer, dry when dormant. Does well in gritty and well-drained soil. A good option if you're seeking something verticillium wilt resistant.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Gladiolus alatus

Plant type: bulb / corm / tuber
Plant family: iridaceae
Foliage: deciduous green
Mature size: 6 IN - 9 IN - wide, 6 IN - 10 IN - tall
Flowers: orange blooms in spring

GROWING CONDITIONS for Gladiolus alatus

USDA Zones: 9a - 10b
Sun exposure: sun
Watering frequency: low
Resistant to: verticillium wilt
Soil needs: gritty and well-drained

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

This South African bulb is a little piece of gardening nirvana. The 6-8” flower spikes hold large orange and green marked flowers. Very similar to Gladiolus equitans but has more slender foliage. The flowers are fragrant. Spring blooming. Grows in sandy soil so would probably be best grown in a pot with some extra sand added to the soil. Should be allowed to go dry in summer during dormant period. OK, let’s do our South African bulb mantra – good drainage, no summer water, good drainage, no summer water - ahhhh... nirvana!

By: Annie's Annuals & Perennials

Gardening facts about Gladiolus alatus plant

How to Grow Gladiolus alatus

  • Sun Exposure

    • sun
  • Water Needs

    • low - drought tolerant
  • Water Needs

    • dry when dormant
  • Water Needs

    • dry in summer
  • Soil Needs

    • well-drained
    • gritty
  • Special Situation

    • verticillium wilt resistant

Features

  • Foliage Color

    • green
  • Flower Color

    • orange
  • Wildlife

    • hummingbirds
  • Flower Season

    • spring
  • Foliage Season

    • deciduous

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