Peacock Orchid

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.