The Peacock Orchid (Gladiolus murieliae, formerly Acidanthera murieliae) is a summer-blooming corm prized for its delicate appearance and intense fragrance. Its star-shaped white flowers feature a distinct maroon blotch at the center, creating an elegant, nodding display. This flower is a member of the Iris family (Iridaceae), not a true orchid. Its sweet, gardenia-like scent is particularly noticeable in the evening. Successfully cultivating this tender plant requires understanding its specific needs, from initial spring planting through careful storage for the following year.
Selecting the Site and Optimal Timing
Successful cultivation begins with choosing a location that mimics the plant’s native East African environment. Peacock Orchids thrive in full sun, requiring a minimum of six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily to encourage strong growth and abundant flowering in late summer. Insufficient light will result in smaller blooms or a complete lack of flowering, though they can tolerate light afternoon shade in the hottest climates.
The soil must be well-drained, as corms are highly susceptible to rot in soggy conditions; loamy or sandy soil types are ideal. Amending heavy clay soil with organic matter, such as compost, is necessary to improve drainage and fertility. The ideal planting time is in the spring, only after the last expected frost has passed and the soil temperature has warmed consistently above 55°F.
Planting corms too early exposes them to cold, wet soil, which can lead to dormancy failure or fungal issues. Waiting until late April or May ensures the necessary warmth for the corms to break dormancy and begin their growth cycle. Choosing a site sheltered from strong winds also prevents the tall flower spikes from snapping once they emerge.
Step-by-Step Planting Instructions
Prepare the planting bed by loosening the soil to a depth of 10 to 12 inches to allow for proper root development and aeration. The corms, which look like small, rounded bulbs with a pointed tip, should be planted with the pointed side facing upward. This orientation ensures the emerging shoot correctly grows toward the soil surface.
The recommended planting depth ranges from 3 to 6 inches. Planting at a depth of 6 inches helps stabilize the tall stems and reduces the need for staking later in the season. Space the corms 4 to 6 inches apart to allow sufficient room for the foliage and to promote good air circulation.
Planting a cluster of six to ten corms together creates a more visually impactful display when the plants bloom. After positioning the corms and backfilling the holes with soil, gently firm the area. An immediate and thorough watering settles the soil and initiates the growth process.
Care During the Growing Season
Consistent moisture is important for the Peacock Orchid, especially during active growth in mid-summer heat. Keep the soil evenly moist but never saturated, as boggy conditions cause corm rot. Reduce watering if the area experiences significant rainfall, but dry spells require supplemental irrigation to maintain steady growth.
Fertilization supports the development of foliage and flower spikes, but the plant does not require heavy feeding. Applying a low-nitrogen, balanced fertilizer (e.g., 5-10-10) every four to six weeks throughout the growing season is sufficient. Alternatively, a slow-release, complete fertilizer can be worked into the soil surface before planting in the spring.
While deep planting helps, taller varieties (up to 36 inches) may still require support, particularly in unsheltered locations. If the stems begin to lean, inserting a thin garden stake provides necessary stability. Removing spent flowers (deadheading) prevents the plant from expending energy on seed production and helps maintain a tidy appearance.
Preparing Corms for Winter Storage
Because the Peacock Orchid is native to tropical East Africa, it lacks the cold hardiness to survive freezing temperatures in most temperate climates. In USDA Hardiness Zones 7 and colder, corms must be lifted and stored indoors for the winter. This process begins in the fall after the first light frost has killed the foliage but before a hard freeze penetrates the soil.
The corms are ready to be dug up once the leaf blades have completely yellowed, signaling that the plant has stored maximum energy for the next season. After carefully lifting them, brush away excess soil and allow them to cure or dry in a cool, dark, well-ventilated area for one to three weeks. This drying process prevents soft rot during storage.
Once the corms are fully dry, trim off the remaining stems and roots. Place them in a breathable medium like peat moss, vermiculite, or shredded newspaper. Store the corms in a dark, dry location, such as a basement or garage, where the temperature remains between 40°F and 60°F. Checking the stored corms periodically ensures they remain healthy until they can be replanted the following spring.