Origin
The Gladiolus oppositiflorus Herb. subsp. salmoneus (Baker) Oberm. is native to South Africa and Zimbabwe. It is commonly found in rocky grasslands and savannas.
Common Names
This plant is commonly known as the Salmon gladiolus or Salmon-colored gladiolus. It is also sometimes referred to as the Pink cypress.
Uses
The Gladiolus oppositiflorus Herb. subsp. salmoneus has decorative and medicinal uses. It is a popular ornamental plant due to its attractive salmon-pink colored flowers. The plant is also known to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. The traditional healers in Zimbabwe use the bulbs for coughs, chest pains, stomach ulcers, and headaches.
General Appearance
The Gladiolus oppositiflorus Herb. subsp salmoneus is a perennial plant that grows up to 45 cm in height. It has narrow, lance-shaped leaves with a bluish-green color and they are arranged in a fan-like manner. The flowers are borne on a long spike and are tubular with a salmon-pink color. The spikes produce between 10 and 15 flowers, and each flower is about 4-5 cm in size. The plant blooms from late spring to early summer. The bulbs are small, round, and corm-like, with a fibrous outer layer.
Light requirements
Gladiolus oppositiflorus herb. subsp. salmoneus prefers full sun exposure for optimal growth and flowering. The plant needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight every day. Without enough light, the plant may not flower properly and become prone to disease and pest infestations.
Temperature requirements
The ideal temperature range for Gladiolus oppositiflorus herb. subsp. salmoneus is between 15°C to 29°C (59°F to 84°F). The plant will not tolerate extreme temperatures, either high or low. Therefore, it is crucial to keep the plant away from cold and hot drafts. Additionally, it is essential to keep the soil temperature consistent as it is one of the critical factors affecting plant growth.
Soil requirements
Gladiolus oppositiflorus herb. subsp. salmoneus thrives in well-draining, loamy soil with a pH range between 6.0 and 7.0. The soil should be rich in organic matter to provide the necessary nutrients for the plant's proper growth and development. Sandy soil or heavy clay soil can lead to issues such as poor drainage, root rot, and stunted growth. Adding compost or well-rotted manure to the soil before planting can help ensure optimal soil conditions.
Cultivation
Gladiolus oppositiflorus subsp. salmoneus can be grown outdoors in areas where the temperature ranges between 60-70°F. Ideally, the planting soil should have a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0, and the site should receive full sunlight for at least six hours daily.
When planting, ensure that corms (the underground bulb that produces the flowers) are planted at a depth of 4 inches and at least 6 inches apart to allow for breathing space and healthy growth. This subspecies is drought tolerant, but regular watering is necessary during the growing period.
Watering Needs
Water consistently, ensuring that the soil is consistently moist but not waterlogged. Irrigation two to three times per week is sufficient for outdoor planting, particularly during the flowering stage.
Avoid exposing the corms, flowers or foliage to excess water, as they may develop rot. Ensure that planting pots or soil has good drainage to avoid overwatering.
Fertilization
Use of a balanced fertilizer is recommended, with nitrogen, phosphate and potassium in a 1:1:1 ratio. Fertilization should occur twice: two weeks after planting and during the flowering stage.
Organic fertilizers are suitable for this subspecies as they have a slower release rate, and nutrients are steadily released over time.
Pruning
Remove spent flowers by cutting off the stem at its base. This stimulates more vigorous blooming and ensures an extended blooming period.
Pruning unnaturally tall stems can be attained with clean pruning shears. Ensure that pruning is done after flowering, as the stems are still alive and producing nutrients for the corm below the soil.
Propagation of Gladiolus oppositiflorus Herb. subsp. salmoneus (Baker) Oberm.
Propagation of Gladiolus oppositiflorus Herb. subsp. salmoneus (Baker) Oberm. can be done by both sexual and asexual methods. However, the most common method of propagation is by using corms.
Corm Propagation
Corms are fleshy underground stems that grow at the base of the plant. The corms of Gladiolus oppositiflorus Herb. subsp. salmoneus (Baker) Oberm. can be dug up in the fall, after the plant has finished flowering. The corms should be carefully cleaned and inspected for any signs of disease or damage. The healthy corms should be stored in a cool, dry place until they are ready to be planted in the spring.
To plant the corms, dig a hole approximately 6 inches deep and place the corm with the flat side facing down. Space the corms about 6 inches apart. Cover the corms with soil and water generously. The corms will begin to sprout within a few weeks.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is possible with Gladiolus oppositiflorus Herb. subsp. salmoneus (Baker) Oberm., although it is not commonly used. The seeds should be sown in the fall, about 1/8 inch deep in well-drained soil. The seeds will germinate in the spring, and the seedlings should be carefully transplanted to a sunny location. It will take several years for the seedlings to mature and produce flowers.
Overall, corm propagation is the preferred method for reproducing Gladiolus oppositiflorus Herb. subsp. salmoneus (Baker) Oberm. because it produces plants that are true to the parent plant and flower more quickly than seed-grown plants.
Disease Management
Gladiolus oppositiflorus Herb. subsp. salmoneus (Baker) Oberm. can suffer from several diseases that can cause severe economic losses. Here are some common diseases and their management strategies:
Fusarium Wilt
Fusarium wilt is a fungal disease that attacks the vascular system of the plant, causing wilting and eventually death. To manage the disease, plant resistant cultivars and rotate crops yearly to prevent buildup of the fungus. Additionally, avoid overwatering, as the fungus thrives in wet conditions.
Leaf Spot
Leaf spot is another common disease that can affect Gladiolus oppositiflorus Herb. subsp. salmoneus (Baker) Oberm. The disease is characterized by brown spots with yellow halos on the plant's leaves. To manage the disease, remove affected leaves and improve air circulation around the plant. Fungicides can also be applied to help control the spread of the disease.
Pest Management
Like all plants, Gladiolus oppositiflorus Herb. subsp. salmoneus (Baker) Oberm. can also be attacked by pests that can cause significant damage. Here are some common pests and their management techniques:
Thrips
Thrips are small, slender insects that can cause deformations and streaks on the flowers. To manage this pest, use yellow sticky traps to capture adults and remove cruciferous weeds, which act as hosts. Additionally, neem oil or insecticidal soap can be applied to help control the population.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny insects that can suck the sap from the plant, causing discoloration and damage. To manage this pest, remove affected plant parts, control the humidity around the plant, and apply insecticidal soap or horticultural oil to help control the population.
Overall, proper management techniques and regular monitoring can help prevent and control diseases and pests that can affect Gladiolus oppositiflorus Herb. subsp. salmoneus (Baker) Oberm.).
