How to plant acidantheras (gladioli callianthus)

Why I’ll Always Make Room for Acidantheras in My Garden 

There are some plants I’ll never go a summer without — and Acidanthera murielae, or as they are affectionately called, Peacock Orchids, are high on that list, also known as gladioli callianthus or Abyssinian gladioli. These elegant, star-shaped blooms are an absolute showstopper: pure white petals with a dramatic carmine-purple centre, not to mention the sweet fragrance that fills the air on warm afternoons. It’s like having a little patch of exotic luxury in my garden.

While they resemble classic gladioli, they’re more delicate and compact — which makes them ideal for sunny borders, patio pots, and even cut flower arrangements (though truth be told, I can rarely bring myself to snip them — they last longer on the plant, and I love watching them sway in the breeze!).

How I Grow and Care for My Acidantheras

If you’re thinking of adding these beauties to your garden, here’s how I do it — and it’s simpler than you’d think:

• Planting Depth: I plant each corm about 10–15 cm deep in well-drained soil.

• Spacing: Go bold — I allow for around 50 corms per square metre for a full effect.

• Sunlight: These plants thrive in warmth and full sun. I’ve learned the hard way that they’ll struggle in colder spots — they’re sun lovers through and through.

• Aftercare: As autumn approaches, I always lift the corms before the first frost, clean them up, and store them somewhere cool and dry until spring. This keeps them healthy and ready to perform year after year.

I usually unpack and inspect my corms as soon as they arrive, then tuck them away in a cool place if I’m not planting right away. A little prep goes a long way!

Planting Companions & Design Tips

Peacock Orchids look stunning planted in bold groups, and they play beautifully alongside other late-summer favourites like dahlias, echinaceas, asters, and agastaches. Their upright form and striking colour make them a standout no matter where you tuck them in.

Pests & Problems to Keep an Eye On

These are generally easygoing, but here are a few things I stay on top of:

• Snails and slugs: Love those tender young shoots. I check early in the season and use eco-friendly traps.

• Aphids: They can weaken plants and spread disease. I remove them by hand or spray them with soapy water.

• Botrytis (grey mould) is usually triggered by too much moisture or poor air circulation. I space plants well, avoid overhead watering, and remove any infected parts immediately.

• Corm rot is caused by damp, poorly-drained soil or humid storage. I check my stored corms regularly and discard anything soft, mouldy, or spotted.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: When should I plant Acidanthera corms in the UK?
A: Plant them in late spring once the risk of frost has passed and the soil has warmed up.

Q: Do I need to lift Acidantheras in winter?
A: Yes, they’re not frost-hardy. Lift them before the first frost, allow them to dry, and store them in a cool, dry place until next season.

Q: Can I grow them in pots?
A: Absolutely! I often cram a few into terracotta containers and let them shine on the patio. Just make sure the pot has good drainage.

Q: Are they suitable for cut flowers?
A: Yes — in fact, they’re one of the best. But they often last longer left on the plant, so I usually enjoy them in the garden.

Q: Do they flower in their first year?
A: They do! Just give them plenty of sun, and they’ll reward you with their signature blooms by late summer.

Acidantheras are an essential addition to your summer garden if you love fragrant flowers, striking shapes, and fuss-free elegance. Trust me, once you grow them, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them.