Description
Gladiolus papilio is unusual in being possibly the hardiest species. It has grassy grey-green foliage up to two feet tall, producing sweeping late summer & early autumn flower stems from August through to September. These arch above the foliage, topped by a row of blooms in grey-green & lavender or slate-lilac. A look inside the hooded funnels reveal a moth-shaped purplish marking against faded yellow, and it is for this feature that it gets its species name which means Butterfly.
Plants are hardy and vigorous in loamy, moist, well draining soil. Its rhizomes produce numerous corms which fatten into flowering bulbs. It is native to south-east Africa.
Main Features
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Type |
Perennial |
|
Hardiness |
Fully Hardy |
|
Flower Colour |
Purple |
|
Size (H xW) |
90 x 90cm |
|
Flowering Season |
Summer |
|
Pot Size |
9cm |
|
Foliage |
Grey-Green |
|
Growth Rate |
Medium Growing |
|
Foliage Type |
Deciduous |
|
Soil PH |
Neutral |
|
Soil Type |
Well Drained |
|
AGM |
No |
|
Position |
Full Sun |
|
Habit |
Spreading |
Cultivation Notes
Grow in any, preferably well drained soil, in full sun or partial shade. May spread in lighter soils. Soil can be moist, and acid, alkaline or neutral, and also sand, loam, chalk or clay. Excels in poorer soil types.
Uses: Plant for interest and architectural effect in borders and beds.
Pruning \ Aftercare : Remove faded flower stems.
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