Gladiolus maculatus (100 seeds)

Gladiolus maculatus. Cormous geophyte up to 70cm. Leaves 3 or 4, linear, leathery, 1.5-2mm wide, lower 2 basal, upper leaves arise from the stem. Flowers 1-3 occasionally 5, vary from cream-yellow to pink, densely to lightly speckled with dark brownish spots; the petal margins are wavy, the tips tend to curl backwards; transparent edges to the upper petals. Flowers strongly to sweetly scented both day and night suggesting pollination by moths. Sowing : Seed is sown in autumn, thinly, in deep (min. 10 cm) seed trays, to allow for root development. The soil medium should be well drained, a recommended mix being 2 parts sand : 2 parts compost : 1 part loam or equal parts sand and compost, and the seeds should be planted 3-4 mm deep, covered with clean sand and kept moist and lightly shaded. Locality: Caledon. Harvest: October 2023