Peacock Lily

(Gladiolus murielae)

Peacock Lily (Gladiolus murielae)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Gladiolus murielae, commonly known as Peacock Lily or Abyssinian Gladiolus, is a deciduous perennial bulb native to grassy slopes and woodlands in East Africa, particularly Ethiopia. It typically grows to 70–100 cm (28–39 in) tall, with linear leaves and, in late summer, produces numerous fragrant white flowers with a maroon to occasionally orange blotch in the throat. The flowers are borne on slender, nodding stems and are known for their striking appearance. The Peacock Lily’s corms are adapted to dry summer conditions and moist winters in its native habitat.

The Peacock Lily is celebrated for its elegant and showy flowers, which make it a popular choice for cut flower arrangements and a charming addition to borders and container gardens. It has earned the Royal Horticultural Society’s Award of Garden Merit, indicating its exceptional performance in gardens. In cultivation, it requires full sun and well-drained soil, and although it is hardy in Zones 7–10, in Zone 6b it may survive with deep planting and mulching to protect against frost. Gardeners in cooler climates often lift the corms annually to store them in frost-free conditions. While generally easy to maintain, it can be susceptible to thrips and fungal diseases such as botrytis.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Bulb, Herb
  • Height: 2-3 feet
  • Width: 1-1.5 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: White
  • Flowering Season: Summer, Fall
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Fast

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Fragrant, Hummingbird Garden, Potted Plant, Showy Flowers

Natural Habitat

Grassy slopes and woodlands in East Africa, particularly Ethiopia

Other Names

Common Names: Fragrant Gladiolus, Abyssinian Gladiolus, Peacock Orchid, Sword Lily, Peacock Gladiolus, Acidanthera, Stern-Gladiole, Palma-De-Santa-Rita, Gladíolo

Scientific Names: , Acidanthera murielae, Gladiolus murielae, Gladiolus callianthus, Acidanthera bicolor, Ixia quartiniana, Gladiolus muriele, Sphaerospora gigantea,

GBIF Accepted Name: Gladiolus murielae Kelway