Dragon's Head Lily (Gladiolus dalenii)

Dragon's Head Lily

Gladiolus dalenii

Vibrant sword-shaped foliage frames bold parrot-like blooms. Herbaceous perennial flowering bulb; common names: Dragon's Head Lily, Parrot Gladiolus.

Full sun
1–2/week
Moderate
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Requires 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal blooming; tolerate partial shade in extreme afternoon heat
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Watering Water deeply when the top 2–3 cm of soil is dry; avoid waterlogging corms to prevent rot
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Temperature Thrives in 18–25°C during active growth; dormant corms tolerate light frost down to 5°C
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Linear, sword-shaped bright green leaves arranged in flat fan-like basal clusters
  • Flower: Trumpet-shaped blooms in orange, red, yellow, or bi-color with ruffled, marked petals
  • Corm: Underground storage structure with fibrous tunic for nutrient retention
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil consistently moist during active growth and blooming

Fertilization

Feed every 2 weeks during active growth. Use balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer high in phosphorus to support blooming

Eggshell powder topdress:Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle 1 tsp per plant around corm base and water lightly to release calcium
Pruning
  • Remove spent blooms promptly to encourage additional flowering
  • Cut back yellowing foliage completely after it dies back in autumn
  • Trim damaged or diseased leaves at the base to maintain plant health
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA confirmed toxic; contains glycosides that cause vomiting, diarrhea, and excessive drooling

Humans: Ingestion of large corm quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal upset including nausea and cramping

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: Symbolizes strength, integrity, and infatuation in traditional floral language

Usage: Popular cut flower for bouquets; ornamental garden border plant