Peacock Orchids , also known as Gladiolus murielae or Abyssinian Sword Lily , are not annuals but rather herbaceous perennials . This means that they have a lifetime of more than one year and will keep on to raise and bloom for several time of year if properly handle for .
The terminal figure “ annual ” refers to flora that complete their life cycle within one year , from seed germination to inflorescence and seed output . However , Inachis io orchidaceous plant do not follow this pattern . They have a more extended life cps , with bulbs that can continue dormant during unfavorable conditions and then regrow and flower again in subsequent years .
The foliage of peacock orchid consists of long , sword - shaped leaves that are a medium shade of green . These leaves grow in a clop habit , forming a dense and attractive showing . The industrial plant ’s main attraction , however , is its stunning flowers .
Peacock orchidaceous plant flowers are fragrant and have a unique appearance . They feature lily-white petal with a maroon or purple splodge at the base , giving them a striking contrast . The flowers are borne on tall , upright stems that can turn over up to 3 foot in altitude . This makes them an optic - catching addition to any garden or landscape painting .
In condition of cultivation , Inachis io orchidaceous plant prefer well - run out soil and full sun to partial shade . They can be grown in the dry land or in containers , as long as the soil is loose and allows for proper drain . It is crucial to irrigate them regularly , especially during dry periods , to ensure they invite tolerable wet .
Inachis io orchidaceous plant are typically planted in the give after the risk of freeze has evanesce . The bulbs should be planted about 4 - 6 inch deep and space 6 - 8 inch asunder . They can be leave in the ground twelvemonth - beat in balmy climate , but in colder region , the light bulb may need to be lifted and stored indoors during the winter to protect them from freeze temperatures .
One of the advantages of peacock orchids being perennials is that they will naturalize over time . This means that they will reproduce and spread , forming big thud and producing more flowers each year . This can make a sensational showing over time , as the flowers become more abundant and fill the garden with their redolence .
In my personal experience , I have found peacock orchid to be relatively downhearted - maintenance plants . Once establish , they command minimum charge and can provide year of stunner in the garden . I have enjoyed follow them multiply and flower profusely each summer , bring a touch of elegance to my landscape painting .
To summarise , peacock orchids are not annuals but herbaceous perennials . They have a clumping substance abuse with long , steel - influence leaf and develop fragrant peak on grandiloquent stems . With proper care , they can fly high and naturalize over clip , furnish a stunning and fragrant show in the garden .
Caroline Bates
