African parrot gladiola (Gladiolus dalenii) is a South African tropical perennial. It grows in dry areas but flourishes in moist environments such as grasslands. This ornamental plant is widely cultivated in gardens and can be used as cut flowers. It is used as a traditional medicinal source as well.
Snap a photo for instant plant ID, gaining quick insights on disease prevention, treatment, toxicity, care, uses, and symbolism, etc.
Download the App for Free
Toxic to Pets
Toxicity
61 cm to 91 cm
Plant Height
60 cm to 90 cm
Spread
Green
Leaf Color
91 cm
Flower Size
Yellow, Orange, Red, White, Pink
Flower Color
Green, Red, Yellow, Orange
Stem Color
Winter dormancy
Dormancy
Deciduous
Leaf type
0 - 38 ℃
Ideal Temperature
On This Page
Images
Distribution
Quickly Identify
Care Guide
FAQs
Common Diseases
Images of African parrot gladiola
Distribution of African parrot gladiola
Distribution Map
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
Introduced
No species reported
Discover plant distribution and habitat
Gain insights into where plants thrive and how they adapt, helping you identify, cultivate, and protect them with essential information on habitats, distribution maps, and climate trends.
Download the App for Free
Habitat
Grassy places and open woods
Hemisphere Trend Curve
Northern
Sorthern
Quickly Identify African parrot gladiola
1
Robust corm structure
2
Long strap-shaped leaves up to 2 feet (60 cm)
3
Towering inflorescences around 3 feet (90 cm) tall
4
Distinctive orange petals with yellow throats resembling 'candy corn'
5
Thrives in full sun, needs well-drained soil, summer irrigation
Identify plants with a snap
Instantly identify plants with AI: Snap a photo, and get accurate results within seconds.
Water:
African parrot gladiola thrives in moderate climates with evenly moist soil, preferring weekly watering without waterlogging. It is moderately drought-tolerant but flourishes in humidity akin to its native habitat. Watering adjustments should consider natural rainfall, especially during the active growing season for optimal blooms.
Fertilize:
For optimal growth, african parrot gladiola requires balanced nutrition fertilizers during its growing season, particularly a high-phosphorus variety monthly. Use a half-strength dilution and adjust feeding during dormancy. Choose granular or liquid options while avoiding over-fertilization to prevent foliage burn for best results.
Pruning:
African parrot gladiola, with its vibrant flowers, thrives on pruning to enhance bloom quality. Key methods include deadheading and cutting back foliage after blooming in early to late spring. This practice promotes strong stems, abundant flowers, prevents disease, and improves air circulation, fostering overall plant health.
Propagation:
African parrot gladiola can be effectively propagated through division. After the corms mature and foliage dies back, lift and separate the corms, then replant them. This process fosters healthy growth, allowing each corm to develop into a new, independent african parrot gladiola, leading to vibrant blooms.
Get tips and tricks for your plants.
Keep your plants happy and healthy with our guide to watering, lighting, feeding and more.