Description
Gladiolus dalenii is a very hardy, deciduous, summer-growing perennial with a corm that gives rise to a fan of erect, grey-green leaves.
The tall, erect, flowering stem has large, hooded flowers varying from intense orange-red to yellow, pale-green and speckled-brown. Different flower forms flower at different times, ranging from October to June. It makes a spectacular show when planted in clumps. Sunbirds and insects are attracted to the flowers.
It has many medicinal and magical uses. It makes a wonderful cut flower, and in fact, the many hybrids of Gladiolus in the cut flower industry were grown from hybrids of South African Gladiolus species.
Plant in well-drained soil in full sun or semi-shade. During the growing season, water well and fertilise, but only with organic, slow release fertiliser.
Size: up to 1,5m
Wildlife
Wildlife garden plant: The flowers attract many insects and Sunbirds to the garden.
Uses
Distribution
Limpopo, N. West, Gauteng, Mpumalanga, KwaZulu Natal, Free State, N. Cape, E. Cape
Natural Habitat Damp grassland, Rocky grassland, Rocky Outcrops, Woodland