Peacock Orchid (Acidanthera bicolor)
Peacock Orchid (Acidanthera bicolor), also known as Abyssinian Gladiolus, is an elegant summer-blooming bulb prized for its fragrant, star-shaped white flowers with deep maroon centers. Its graceful, sword-like foliage and exotic blooms make it a standout addition to garden beds, borders, and cut flower arrangements.
Distinctive Features
Peacock Orchid produces delicate, nodding flowers on tall, slender stems, creating a striking contrast against its narrow, bright green foliage. Each bloom features six pristine white petals with a deep burgundy or maroon blotch at the center. Its long-lasting fragrance enhances outdoor spaces and makes it an excellent choice for bouquets.
Growing Conditions
- Sun Exposure: Prefers full sun; thrives in bright locations with at least six hours of direct sunlight.
- Soil: Grows best in well-draining, sandy or loamy soil with moderate fertility.
- Water: Keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged; reduce watering once foliage begins to yellow.
- Humidity: Prefers moderate humidity; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
- USDA Hardiness Zones: 7-11; in cooler climates, bulbs should be lifted and stored for winter.
Ideal Uses
- Garden Borders: Adds a touch of elegance and height to mixed plantings.
- Cut Flowers: Long-lasting, fragrant blooms make beautiful floral arrangements.
- Container Gardens: Thrives in pots, allowing for easy overwintering in colder regions.
- Pollinator Gardens: Attracts butterflies and hummingbirds with its nectar-rich flowers.
Low Maintenance Care
Peacock Orchid is a relatively low-maintenance bulb that rewards gardeners with showy flowers and a delightful fragrance.
- Watering: Maintain consistent moisture during the growing season, reducing after flowering.
- Pruning: Remove spent flowers to prolong blooming; allow foliage to die back naturally.
- Fertilizing: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer when planting and again during mid-season growth.
- Overwintering: In colder zones, dig up and store bulbs in a cool, dry place over winter.
Why Choose Peacock Orchid?
Peacock Orchid is valued for its unique, fragrant blooms, adaptability, and ability to enhance both garden landscapes and floral arrangements.
- Elegant Blooms: White, star-shaped flowers with dramatic maroon centers.
- Fragrant: Emits a pleasant, sweet scent, ideal for evening gardens.
- Versatile: Grows well in gardens, containers, and cut flower arrangements.
- Low Maintenance: Easy to grow and care for, with minimal requirements.
For a graceful and aromatic addition to any garden, Peacock Orchid (Acidanthera bicolor) is an excellent choice.