Gladiolus murielae
Gladiolus murielae
Abyssinian gladiolus produces elegant arching stems of fragrant white flowers with deep purple-maroon blotches at the throat in late summer. Much more graceful than large-flowered gladioli. The sweet scent carries well in warm evening air. Half-hardy so lift corms in autumn or grow in containers in UK gardens.
Where to plant
Best aspect
Border position
When to plant and expect flowers
Plant
Flowers
How to grow gladiolus murielae
Plant 10-15cm deep in April after the last frost. Lift corms in autumn before hard frosts and store frost-free over winter. Alternatively grow in large pots and move under cover. The fragrance is strongest in the evening. Excellent cut flower.
Soil requirements
Soil type
loam, sand
Moisture
well drained
pH
neutral
Aftercare
Allow foliage to die back naturally after flowering. Remove spent flower heads to prevent self-seeding.
Propagation
- Offsets in autumn
- Seed
Wildlife value
Toxicity
This bulb is not known to be toxic to pets or people.
Common problems
- Gladiolus thrips
- Corm rot in storage
- Not frost hardy
Similar bulbs to grow
Related guides
Allium White Rot: The 20-Year Soil Problem
Allium white rot UK identification and prevention. Sclerotia persist 20+ years. Covers symptoms, spread, decoy planting, and raised bed workarounds.
Allotment Planner: Month-by-Month
Month-by-month allotment planner for UK growers. Sowing, planting, harvesting and maintenance tasks for every month, tested on heavy clay over 7 seasons.
Alpine Container Display UK: Trough Care
How to build and care for an alpine trough container in the UK. Recipes for 6 trough styles, plant lists, drainage and year-round maintenance.