More sweet scents, Gladiolus murielae

I always think of these as Callianthus, and they are also known as fragrant Gladiolus, which makes total sense to me. Some people say the scent is like Gardenia; to me it smells like tropical evenings, a nice vision in this frosty weather.

The ones I planted years ago have been miserable and haven’t flowered since the trees around them grew big. This one popped up in a small terracotta pot on a sunny deck – a strong hint that I need to move them to a sunnier spot! They normally flower in autumn, but it’s been a warm winter until 2 weeks ago, and I suppose it’s been so dry in the little pot that it didn’t start to grow until late.

Thanks to Cathy at Rambling in the Garden who has a sweet vase of Cornflowers today.

bouquet with acidanthera gladiolus callianthus

In a Vase on Monday – Acidanthera and Anemone

Of the new plants I’ve grown this year, the bulbs formerly known as Gladiolus callianthus have been one of my favourites. I prefer the name callianthus or Gladiolus  murialae to Acidanthera – but in any case they blend in nicely with other plants in the garden and are beautifully scented. They are graceful, although like lillies the spent blooms remain hanging on the plant unless removed.

Continue reading “In a Vase on Monday – Acidanthera and Anemone”

acidanthera dahlia coreopsis tropical milk weed cut flowers

In a Vase on Monday – all sorts

I actually planned my vase this week, but I didn’t follow the plan, and then my next plan didn’t work out. I was going to make a vase with Magnolia grandiflora. The big white blossoms have been catching my attention with their lemony exotic scent as I’ve walked past. And then I discovered that the first of the Acidantheras were flowering. I’ve been waiting for these for ages. AKA Gladiolus callianthus or Gladiolus murialae these are related to Gladiolus but scented and triangular with a dark purple throat. Continue reading “In a Vase on Monday – all sorts”