Acidanthera (Acidanthera murielae syn. Gladiolus murielae) – also known as the Abyssinian gladiolus, callianthus, sword lily or peacock lily – is a graceful summer-flowering perennial. It has erect grass-like leaves and slender stems up to 1m tall, each one bearing several nodding, funnel-shaped, white flowers with purple throats. The flowers are attractive to a range of pollinators, including bees, which visit for nectar and pollen.
Acidanthera works well in cottage gardens and prairie-style planting designs, particularly when planted in drifts. It also makes a great addition to the cutting garden.
How to grow acidantheraGrow acidanthera in a sheltered spot in full sun. For the best display, acidanthera needs fertile soil that is moist and free-draining, but it can also tolerates some drought. If you have a heavy, water-retentive soil, grow acidanthera in rich, peat-free compost in large pots.
How long does it take for acidanthera to grow and flower?Acidanthera can be quite slow to appear after planting, first developing its root system underground, but once foliage appears, it grows very quickly. It will produce its striking flowers about three months after planting, in late summer or early autumn, and its foliage will look good until the first frosts.
Where to grow acidantheraAcidanthera makes a wonderful display when planted in drifts in a mixed border or cottage garden. It also complements a prairie-style planting of grasses and late-flowering perennials, and is a great addition to the cutting garden. If you grow it in a pot, position it in a place where you can get close enough to appreciate the rich fragrance of its blooms.
How to plant acidantheraAcidanthera grows from a bulb-like structure known as a corm,
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