Goldblotch Gladiolus (Gladiolus papilio) is a striking South African native species known for its deep purple, orchid-like flowers with prominent yellow blotches on the l
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Prefers at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily for best flowering.
Moderate
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist during growth, reduce when foliage yellows.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers temperatures between 15-25°C during the growing season. Protect from frost.
Outdoor
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer during active growth.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water consistently during the growing season, keeping the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Reduce watering as the foliage begins to yellow and die back in late summer or early autumn.
Ensure good drainage to prevent corm rot, especially during dormancy.
Remove spent flowers regularly to encourage further blooming and prevent seed formation. Once the foliage has yellowed and died back naturally after flowering, cut it down to the ground.
This allows the plant to redirect energy into the corms for the following season.
Gladiolus papilio is typically propagated by dividing the corms. After the foliage has died back, carefully lift the corms from the soil. Separate any offsets (cormlets) from the main corm.
Replant the corms in autumn or early spring, ensuring they are planted at the correct depth.
Gladiolus papilio is typically grown directly in the ground or in containers with adequate space for root development.
If grown in containers and the plant appears root-bound or the soil quality has degraded, repotting can be done during the dormant season. Ensure fresh, well-draining potting mix.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Goldblotch Gladiolus (Gladiolus papilio)
Where Goldblotch Gladiolus (Gladiolus papilio) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Iridaceae |
| Genus | Gladiolus |
| Species | Gladiolus papilio |
Similar in genus Gladiolus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
