Butterfly sword lily (Gladiolus papilio)

Butterfly sword lily

Also known as: Butterfly Gladiolus, Gladiola

Goldblotch gladiolus (Gladiolus papilio) gets its common name from the golden marking on its petals. Its scientific name papilo means butterfly and derives from the butterfly-wing-like marks on its flower's lower petals. Butterfly sword lily is a small but attractive plant that grows the perfect size for container plantings.

Scientific classification

Species

Butterfly sword lily (Gladiolus papilio)

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Toxic to Pets

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

75 cm

Plant Height

45 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

White, Yellow, Red, Purple, Pink

Flower Color

Deciduous

Leaf type

Distribution of Butterfly sword lily

Distribution Map

Butterfly sword lily is native to the temperate grasslands of the southeastern African region. It is both a wild and a cultivated species, having been introduced and naturalized in suitable habitats across different continents for ornamental purposes. While its cultivation extends its range, butterfly sword lily retains a characteristic presence in its indigenous African locales.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Care Guide for Butterfly sword lily

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Butterfly sword lily thrives in regions with consistent rainfall and shows moderate drought tolerance. For optimal health, it needs weekly watering to maintain soil moisture without saturation, promoting vibrant blooms as an outdoor flowering plant.

Fertilize: To promote butterfly sword lily's growth and flowering, apply balanced fertilizer monthly, then switch to a high phosphorus formulation before blooming. Use one teaspoon per gallon, adjusting for size and soil. Reduce feeding in winter, and always follow product labels for dosage to avoid root burn.

Pruning: Prune butterfly sword lily from early to late spring to promote growth and new blooms. Remove spent flowers and damaged leaves for better air circulation and health. Pruning maintains shape and size, ensuring a robust garden presence.

Propagation: Native to South Africa, butterfly sword lily is a perennial propagated through tubers. Separate tubers with growth points and plant them in well-draining soil at a depth three times their size. Maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging to promote healthy growth and establishment.

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