Harlequin flower (Gladiolus colvillei)
Care, watering, light and tips for Harlequin flower on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Iridaceae
- Difficulty: Moderate care
- Watering: every 3 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Harlequin flower
Gladiolus colvillei is a hybrid gladiolus species, valued for its elegant and vibrant flowers. It produces spikes of funnel-shaped blooms, often with contrasting colors in the throat, adding a touch of sophistication to borders and containers. It's an excellent choice for cut flower arrangements, bringing lasting beauty indoors.
Native range
South Africa
Care tips
This gladiolus thrives in full sun, requiring at least 6 hours daily for optimal flowering. It needs regular and ample watering during its growth and flowering period, especially in hot and dry climates; avoid letting the soil dry out completely. It prefers well-drained soil rich in organic matter. A common mistake is planting it in heavy, poorly draining soils, which can lead to corm rot.
How to save a dying Harlequin flower
- Warning signs
- Yellow or brown leaves from the base, soft stems, no flowering, soft or rotten corm. 🌿
- First aid
- Dig up the corm, inspect and remove soft or rotten parts. Replant in fresh, well-draining soil. Reduce watering if overwatering was the issue. 💧
- What kills it
- Overwatering that rots the corm or heavy soil that retains too much moisture. Also, lack of light or extreme cold. ❄️
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if the corm is not completely rotted or damaged. Act quickly at the first sign of decline.