Wikimedia Commons
Iridaceae
Peacock Orchid
Gladiolus murielae
Elegant grace and fragrant twilight beauty.
- Family
- Iridaceae
- Genus
- Gladiolus
- Native to
- Ethiopia, East Africa
- Bloom season
- Late Summer, Early Autumn
- Type
- cormous perennial
- Height
- 60–100 cm
- Sunlight
- full sun
- Soil
- well-drained, fertile
- Water
- moderate
- Hardiness
- 7–10
- Lifespan
- perennial (corms replanted annually in cold zones)
Did you know
- Despite its common name, it is not an orchid at all — it is a gladiolus in the iris family.
- Each white petal bears a dramatic dark purple blotch at its base, creating a 'peacock eye' effect.
- The flowers are intensely fragrant, especially in the evening, attracting night-flying moths.
- It was formerly classified as Acidanthera bicolor, and many gardeners still know it by that name.
- The corms must be lifted and stored over winter in zones colder than 7, similar to dahlias.
Color meanings
White
graceful purity
Purple
regal distinction