Please note:
These bulbs are pre-order items and are expected to be dispatched in the last week of August or the first week of September, weather permitting.
Our specialist growers carefully hold back stock until the bulbs have properly cured and are ready for immediate planting to ensure the best results in your garden.
In the unlikely event that a specific variety does not cure properly or is deemed non-viable by the farm, we will refund you for that portion of your order.
If you add pre-order items to your cart, your entire order will be held until those items are ready to ship. To receive in-stock items sooner, we recommend placing two separate orders.
Gladioli 'Black Star' - The Enigmatic Jewel for Your South African Garden
Imagine a bloom so captivating, so intensely coloured, it stops you in your tracks. Presenting Gladioli 'Black Star', a true showstopper for your South African garden. This isn't just a flower; it's an experience, a bold statement of sophistication and drama that will leave your neighbours in awe and fill your heart with pride. 🖤
Why 'Black Star' Will Transform Your Garden (and Your Mood!):
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Deep, Velvety Hues: As you can see from the image, 'Black Star' boasts an almost black, deep maroon colour that truly earns its name. Each petal shimmers with a velvety texture, creating an unparalleled visual feast. It's the epitome of elegance!
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Vertical Drama: These majestic gladioli send up towering flower spikes, reaching impressive heights. They'll add incredible vertical interest and a touch of grandeur to your flower beds, borders, or even patio pots.
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Perfect for South African Summers: Gladioli thrive in our glorious sunshine! 'Black Star' will flourish under the South African sun, bringing its dramatic beauty to your garden when you need it most.
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Long-Lasting Blooms: Enjoy weeks of breathtaking beauty! 'Black Star' offers an extended flowering period, ensuring your garden remains a vibrant spectacle throughout the season.
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Exceptional Cut Flowers: Bring the drama indoors! These gladioli are magnificent as cut flowers, adding a touch of sophisticated luxury to your home décor. Create stunning arrangements that spark conversation and joy.
Caring for Your 'Black Star' Gladioli It's Easier Than You Think!
We want you to succeed, and cultivating 'Black Star' is wonderfully straightforward.
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Sunlight: Plant your corms in a spot that receives full sun at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily is ideal for our climate. This ensures vigorous growth and abundant blooms.
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Soil Perfection: 'Black Star' loves well-draining soil. A sandy loam enriched with compost is perfect. If your soil is heavy clay, simply amend it with plenty of organic matter to improve drainage. This prevents waterlogging and keeps your corms healthy.
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Watering Wisely: During the growing season, especially when flowers are forming, water regularly and deeply. Aim for consistently moist, but not waterlogged, soil. Reduce watering once the foliage starts to yellow after flowering.
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Planting Time: For best results in South Africa, plant your 'Black Star' gladioli corms from late August to December. This ensures spectacular blooms from mid-summer onwards, perfectly timed for our vibrant outdoor living.
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Easy Maintenance: A little care goes a long way! Support taller stalks with stakes if needed, especially in windy areas. Deadhead spent blooms to encourage the plant to focus its energy on new flowers.
Feel the Transformation!
Imagine the thrill of seeing these dark, mysterious beauties unfurl in your own garden. Feel the sense of accomplishment as your neighbours admire your unique floral display. Picture yourself crafting exquisite bouquets that radiate elegance. With Gladioli 'Black Star', you're not just planting a flower; you're cultivating joy, beauty, and a touch of the extraordinary.
Family: Iridaceae
Common name: gladioli, sword lily, glads
Sun exposure: Full sun
Planting time: September December
Flowering time: November - February
Active growth: December - April
Dormant: May August
Lifting time: July
Type: Corm
Mature height: 100cm
Planting depth: 3cm deep
Plant spacing: 15cm apart
Watering: Every 3-4 days when planted in the ground for 10 minutes
Position and soil
Gladioli look magnificent towards the back of a mixed perennial border. Groups of about 25 look best, although groups of 10 in single colours also make a bold statement. The soil should first be loosened to a depth of 20 cm. Hybrid gladioli like a compost-rich soil mix and need a full sun position to thrive. If they are planted where wind is a problem, they will need staking.
Further Care
Watering is very important and you must not allow the sub-soil to dry out. If you notice any harmful insects or fungal rust then you can treat it by spraying with an appropriate fungal spray.
For best results, feed with Hadeco Bulb Food.
