How to identify African parrot gladiola (Gladiolus dalenii)

Photo By Balaji Srinivasan

How to identify African parrot gladiola (Gladiolus dalenii)

African parrot gladiola, also known as Maid-of-the-mist, Dalens gladiolus

African parrot gladiola is characterized by its robust corm structure and long, strap-shaped leaves that can reach a length of 2 feet (60 cm). During the early fall season, it produces multiple towering inflorescences, each about 3 feet (90 cm) tall, which bear bell-shaped, flaring-petaled flowers. The blooms are distinctive with their vibrant orange petals contrasted by yellow throats, reminiscent of 'candy corn'. This plant thrives in full sun and prefers well-drained soil conditions, requiring summer irrigation to sustain its summer growth period.

Lifespan: Perennial

Plant Type: Herb

Leaf Type: Deciduous

Quickly Identify African parrot gladiola

Robust corm structure

Long strap-shaped leaves up to 2 feet (60 cm)

Towering inflorescences around 3 feet (90 cm) tall

Distinctive orange petals with yellow throats resembling 'candy corn'

Thrives in full sun, needs well-drained soil, summer irrigation

African parrot gladiola and Their Similar Plants

Acidanthera vs. African parrot gladiola: What's The Difference?

It is a cormous perennial growing to 70 to 100 cm tall, with linear leaves and in late summer, numerous fragrant white flowers with a maroon (occasionally orange) blotch in the throat, on slender nodding stems. Widely cultivated, it is a common subject in western and southern European gardens, where the corms are lifted every year and stored in frost-free conditions.

Ever-flowering gladiolus vs. African parrot gladiola: What's The Difference?

Ever-flowering gladiolus is a popular ornamental plant due to its eye-catching, funnel-shaped flowers and pleasant evening aroma. It can be found growing naturally in boggy marshlands, but as a winter-growing plant, it needs protection from the cold. The pollen-rich flowers provide early food for bees.

Gladiolus byzantinus vs. African parrot gladiola: What's The Difference?

Gladiolus byzantinus are perennial flowers. Their name comes from the Latin word for "small sword" because of the sword-shaped flower heads. These plants are commonly cultivated as ornamentals either in gardens or for cut flowers. Many different varieties of gladiolus byzantinus with flowers of different colors have been hybridized for commercial purposes.

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Key Facts About African parrot gladiola

Attributes of African parrot gladiola

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

61 cm to 91 cm

Spread

60 cm to 90 cm

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

91 cm

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Scientific Classification of African parrot gladiola

Phylum

Class

Order

Family

Genus

Species

African parrot gladiola (Gladiolus dalenii)

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Distribution Map of African parrot gladiola

African parrot gladiola, originally native to Sub-Saharan Africa, has naturalized in parts of South America and Central America. This plant has a well-established presence in its indigenous region across various habitats and has been introduced to new territories, adapting to similar climates. African parrot gladiola is also widely cultivated beyond its native and introduced ranges.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Potentially invasive

Exotic

No species reported

Learn More About the African parrot gladiola

A Comprehensive Guide to African parrot gladiola How to Grow and Care for African parrot gladiola