Overview
Gladiolus tabularis Eckl. is a plant species native to South Africa and belongs to the family Iridaceae. It is commonly known as the Large Brown Afrikaner or the Candelabra Gladiolus due to the shape of its inflorescence.
Appearance
The Large Brown Afrikaner is a perennial herb that typically grows up to 60 cm tall. It has narrow leaves that are arranged in a fan-like pattern. The flowers of the plant are borne on a robust stem that can bear up to 30 flowers. Each individual flower is a light brown color and has a yellow throat. The inflorescence of the plant resembles a candelabra, hence the common name of Candelabra Gladiolus.
Uses
Gladiolus tabularis Eckl. is primarily used as an ornamental plant due to its attractive appearance. It is often grown in gardens or used as cut flowers. The plant is also used for horticultural purposes, as it is a parent species of many hybrid cultivars that are popular in the cut flower industry. In traditional medicine, the leaves and corms of the plant are used to treat various ailments such as coughs and headaches.
Cultivation
The Large Brown Afrikaner is an easy plant to cultivate as it tolerates a wide range of soil types, provided they are well-drained. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and requires regular watering during the growing season. Propagation of the plant is usually done through corms, which should be planted in late winter or early spring, after the last frost. The plant will begin to bloom in the late spring or early summer.
Conclusion
The Gladiolus tabularis Eckl., also known as the Large Brown Afrikaner or Candelabra Gladiolus, is a beautiful plant species that is popular in gardens and as cut flowers. Its attractive appearance and ease of cultivation make it a favorite among gardeners. The plant is also used in traditional medicine and for horticultural purposes, being a parent species of many hybrid cultivars. Overall, Gladiolus tabularis Eckl. is a versatile plant species that has many uses and benefits.
Light Conditions
The Gladiolus tabularis Eckl. requires plenty of sunlight for its growth. It should be placed in a location where it will receive direct or indirect sunlight for at least 6 hours daily. Insufficient light might result in elongated stems and weak plants that may not produce any flowers.
Temperature
The ideal temperature range for the Gladiolus tabularis Eckl. is between 18°C and 25°C during the day and not lower than 15°C at night. At temperatures below 13°C, the plants may face stunted growth and delayed blooming. High temperatures above 28°C can also cause damage to the plant.
Soil Requirements
The Gladiolus tabularis Eckl. thrives in well-draining soils with adequate moisture. The soil should have a pH range between 6.0 and 7.5, which makes it slightly acidic. Waterlogged soil should be avoided as it can lead to root rot. Soil rich in organic matter is beneficial as it aids in nutrient retention and promotes healthy plant growth. Adding compost or well-rotted manure before planting will improve soil quality.
Cultivation Methods
Gladiolus tabularis Eckl. & Zeyh. is a bulb plant that grows from corms, and it can be propagated by seeds or corms. The plant needs well-draining soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0 and should be planted in a location that receives full sun. The corms should be planted about 4 to 5 inches deep, with a spacing of about 6 inches between them.
Watering Needs
Gladiolus tabularis Eckl. & Zeyh. requires regular watering to grow and produce flowers. The plant needs to be watered deeply, but not too frequently, about once or twice a week. However, avoid overwatering, as this can lead to corm rot. You can reduce the frequency of watering as the plant nears the end of its growing cycle.
Fertilization
Gladiolus tabularis Eckl. & Zeyh. requires regular fertilization to promote healthy growth and flowering. A general-purpose fertilizer with a balanced NPK fertilizer ratio of 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 can be applied to the soil around the plants every three weeks. You can also apply a slow-release fertilizer at the beginning of the growing season to provide a continuous supply of nutrients to the plants.
Pruning
Pruning can help to maintain the health and shape of Gladiolus tabularis. You should remove the spent flowers and flower spikes regularly to promote the development of new blooms. Once the plant has finished blooming, cut back the stem to just above the top of the corm. This helps the plant to conserve energy and prepare for the next growing season.
Propagation of Gladiolus Tabularis Eckl.
Gladiolus tabularis Eckl. is commonly known as the Large Brown Afrikaner, and is a well-known perennial plant that produces beautiful flowers.
Propagation by Seeds
Propagation of Gladiolus tabularis is possible through seeds that can be collected from the pods after the flower has bloomed. These seeds need to be sowed soon after being collected, as they have a short shelf life.
The seeds are sowed in a well-draining potting mix that is kept moist. The potting mix should not be wet, as it can lead to rotting of the seeds. Once the seeds have germinated, they can be transplanted into larger pots or the ground.
Propagation by Corms
Propagation of Gladiolus tabularis is easy and usually done through corms that are dug up after the flowering period. The corms are then stored in a cool and dry place until the start of the next growing season.
Corms should be planted in well-draining soil in a position that gets full sun. Plant the corm with the pointed side facing up and the flat side at the bottom. Cover the corm with soil and water well. Once the seedling has grown to about 6 inches, it can be transplanted into a larger pot or the ground.
Propagation by Division
Another method of propagation of Gladiolus tabularis is through division. This method involves dividing the corms into smaller segments and replanting them into individual pots or the ground.
Division is done during the dormant season, when the plant growth is not active. Carefully remove the corms, separate them with a clean knife, and replant them into well-draining soil in a new location. Water the soil well after planting.
Disease and pest management for Gladiolus tabularis Eckl.
Gladiolus tabularis Eckl., commonly known as the large brown afrikaner, is a beautiful plant prized for its striking inflorescences. However, like any other plant, it is susceptible to a range of diseases and pests that can damage or even kill it. Effective disease and pest management is essential to keep the plant healthy and looking its best.
Common diseases of Gladiolus tabularis Eckl. and their management
Gladiolus tabularis Eckl. is prone to several diseases that can affect its leaves, stems and flowers. These include:
Fusarium wilt:
Fusarium wilt is a fungal disease that causes yellowing, shriveling, and wilting of the leaves. It can be managed by planting resistant varieties of Gladiolus tabularis Eckl. and avoiding soil that has previously been contaminated with the disease. Diseased plants should be removed and destroyed to prevent the disease from spreading.
Botrytis blight:
Botrytis blight is a fungal disease that affects the flowers, causing brown spots and rot. It can be managed by providing adequate air circulation around the plants, avoiding overhead watering, and removing infected flowers and leaves promptly. Fungicides can also be used to control the disease.
Bulb rot:
Bulb rot is a fungal disease that affects the bulbs, causing them to become soft and mushy. It can be prevented by planting healthy bulbs, avoiding overcrowding, and providing well-drained soil. Infected bulbs should be removed and destroyed, and the planting area should be treated with a fungicide.
Common pests of Gladiolus tabularis Eckl. and their management
Gladiolus tabularis Eckl. is also vulnerable to several pests that can cause significant damage. These include:
Thrips:
Thrips are tiny insects that can cause significant damage to the flowers and leaves of Gladiolus tabularis Eckl. They can be managed by using insecticidal soap, neem oil, or other insecticides. Good garden hygiene, such as removing plant debris and weeds, can also help to prevent infestations.
Spider mites:
Spider mites are common pests that can cause discoloration and webbing on the leaves of Gladiolus tabularis Eckl. They can be managed by using insecticidal soap, neem oil, or other miticides. Regularly hosing down the plant with water can also help to control these pests.
Aphids:
Aphids are soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of Gladiolus tabularis Eckl. They can cause stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves. They can be managed by using insecticidal soap, neem oil, or other insecticides, or by introducing natural predators like ladybugs into the garden.
By following these tips, gardeners can effectively manage diseases and pests that might affect Gladiolus tabularis Eckl., ensuring that it remains healthy and blooming beautifully for years to come.
