How to Grow Gladiolus
| Botanical Name | Gladiolus palustris |
| Common Name | Gladioulus |
| Plant Type | Corm, or bulbotumer |
| Mature Size | 2-5 feet |
| Sun Exposure | Full sun |
What is the etymological meaning of the gladiolus?
Etymological Meaning of the Gladiolus Flower. Gladiolus is both the scientific and common name for these flowers. They are sometimes referred to a sword flowers or sword lilies due to the sword-like shape of both the foliage and the flower spike. The flower spire is said to pierce the heart of the recipient with love.
What is the scientific name of Gladiolus oppositiflorus?
Gladiolus oppositiflorus, which is the scientific name for Gladiolus has been called Glads and Gladiola ever since the species became popular garden plants over 250 years ago. Most species of Gladiolus were discovered in the Cape Floristic Region of South Africa, which is the center of diversity for the species.
What does a Gladiolus look like?
Gladiolus is a genus of flowering perennial plants in the iris family Iridaceae. The gladiolus plant grows from round corms, and each flower stalk can contain between one and 30 funnel-shaped flowers. Apart from the showy flowers, gladiolus plants are identified by narrow, deep-green sword-shaped leaves.
How many species are in the genus Gladiolus?
The genus Gladiolus contains about 300 species, the World Checklist of Selected Plant Families had over 276 species in 1988, As of February 2017, it accepted 300 species.
Why is it called gladiolus?
Named for their shape and appearance, the term gladiolus stems from the diminutive form of gladius, which means sword in Latin. Translated literally a gladiolus is a little sword. Gladioli have also been called xiphium, which comes from the Greek word, xiphios, which also means sword.
What are gladiolus in English?
gladiolus in British English (ˌɡlædɪˈəʊləs ) nounWord forms: plural -lus, -li (-laɪ ) or -luses. Also called: sword lily, gladiola. any iridaceous plant of the widely cultivated genus Gladiolus, having sword-shaped leaves and spikes of funnel-shaped brightly coloured flowers. anatomy.
What type of flower is gladiolus?
Gladiolus is a genus of flowering perennial plants in the iris family Iridaceae. The gladiolus plant grows from round corms, and each flower stalk can contain between one and 30 funnel-shaped flowers. Apart from the showy flowers, gladiolus plants are identified by narrow, deep-green sword-shaped leaves.
Is there a flower called gladiolus?
Gladiolus is one of the August birth flowers. Gladioli are sometimes called “sword lilies” due to their blade-like leaves. In fact, “gladiolus” itself comes from Latin gladius, meaning “sword.”
Is a gladiolus and iris?
Each stem of an iris plant may contain one or more flowers blooming at a time. While both plants are called bulbs, gladioli are actually corms. Irises are usually rhizomatous, but they may also be corms or bulbs, depending on the species.
Is gladiolus an orchid?
This interesting species is not an orchid but is in the Iris family. It was originally described as Acidanthera bicolor and is still often listed as such, but it is now named Gladiolus murielae (sometimes incorrectly seen as G. callianthus).
Is gladiolus a bulb?
For a striking flower show and stunning cut flowers, grow gladiolus. This spring-planted corm (bulb), quickly produces flower spikes in a variety of colors that pop. This makes them a first choice for tucking into young perennial flower gardens that could use some added color while they reach maturity.
What is similar to gladiolus?
Freesias (Freesia spp.), hardy in USDA zones 9 through 10, grow from rounded corms, similar to those of gladiolus. The fragrant, funnel-shaped flowers differ slightly in shape from gladiolus blooms, but are available in a similar wide array of colors. Like gladiolus, freesias are popular in the cut flower industry.
What Colour are gladiolus?
Gladiolas are available in a rainbow of gorgeous colors, ranging from white, yellow, pink and lavender, to rose, burgundy, purple and even green. The bulbs are incredibly easy to grow. Just plant them in spring for flowers in late summer.
What is the scientific name of chrysanthemum?
ChrysanthemumChrysanthemum / Scientific name
Is gladiolus queen of flowers?
Gladiolus Grandiflorus, generally called “Glad” and originated from South Africa, is a prominent bulbous cut flower plant. It is also known as “queen of the flowers” is one of the popular bulbous ornamental plants.
Is gladiolus a bulb?
For a striking flower show and stunning cut flowers, grow gladiolus. This spring-planted corm (bulb), quickly produces flower spikes in a variety of colors that pop. This makes them a first choice for tucking into young perennial flower gardens that could use some added color while they reach maturity.
Is gladiolus queen of flowers?
Gladiolus Grandiflorus, generally called “Glad” and originated from South Africa, is a prominent bulbous cut flower plant. It is also known as “queen of the flowers” is one of the popular bulbous ornamental plants.
What is the use of gladiolus flower?
A widely used part of the African medicine tradition, the gladiolus was often used in the treatment of a variety of sicknesses such as diarrhea, constipation, and colds. Some cultures use it to treat hypochondriacs, and to improve mood and energy levels. Others use it to treat lumbago and for relief from headaches.
What's the difference between gladiolus and gladiolus?
gladiolus, (genus Gladiolus), also called gladiola, plural gladioli, gladiolus, or gladioluses, genus of about 300 species of flowering plants of the iris family (Iridaceae), native to Europe, Africa, and the Mediterranean area. Several species are widely cultivated for cut flowers and as garden ornamentals.
How tall are Gladiolus?
Tags: compact gladiolus, 12-24" tall, stems do not need support, white and yellow flowers. Harvest corms after foliage dies in the fall. Clean carefully and store dry in mesh bags with good air circulation at 35-41 degrees F (2-5C) Flowers (with anthers removed) are edible.
Where do sword lilies come from?
The genus, which hails from Africa, Madagascar, and Eurasia, includes over 300 species in a range of flower colors. Sword lilies prefer full to afternoon sun, protection from strong winds, and rich, well-drained soil; however, they will adapt to most soils except heavy clay.
What is a sword lily?
Description. Sword lily is a genus of flowering bulbs in the Iridaceae (iris) family. The plant is distinguished by long, sword-shaped green leaves in upright fans and funnel-shaped flowers on slender stalks that open one at a time from bottom to top. The genus, which hails from Africa, Madagascar, and Eurasia, ...
Gladiolus Facts
Gladiolus is a genus of flowering perennial plants in the iris family Iridaceae. The gladiolus plant grows from round corms, and each flower stalk can contain between one and 30 funnel-shaped flowers. Apart from the showy flowers, gladiolus plants are identified by narrow, deep-green sword-shaped leaves.
Gladiolus Flower
Gladiolus flowers are classed as “summer bulbs.” When the “sword flowers” are in bloom, they put on a fantastic summer color show. Gladiolus bloom continuously from early or late summer until the first frost. The flowers are identified by their funnel shape growing on one side of the tall flower stalk.
How to Plant Gladiolus Bulbs
Plant gladiolus bulbs in spring after the last frost and choose the sunniest part of your garden. Plant the round corms 4 inches deep (10 cm) and 6 to 8 inches (15 – 20 cm) apart. The ground should be well-drained soil that is moderately fertile. Water thoroughly after planting and water regularly throughout the summer.
Types of Gladiolus Flowers (With Pictures)
Let’s look in more detail at examples of spectacular gladiolus flowers:
Gladiolus Illyricus Flowers
The gladiolus illyricus is called the wild gladiolus and has hooded magenta or dark lilac showy flowers with large petals. The lower petals on the pink-purple flowers have whitish streaks, helping to identify this dwarf gladiolus species. The hardy gladiolus grows up to 10” (25 cm) tall and performs well in pots or well-drained ground.
Where are gladiolus native to?
Gladiolus, (genus Gladiolus ), also called gladiola, plural gladioli, gladiolus, or gladioluses, genus of about 300 species of flowering plants of the iris family ( Iridaceae ), native to Europe, Africa, and the Mediterranean area. Several species are widely cultivated for cut flowers and as garden ornamentals. Gladiolus flowers blooming in a field.
What percentage of plants are angiosperms?
Angiosperms represent approximately 80 percent of all the known green plants now living. The angiosperms are vascular seed plants in which the ovule (egg) is fertilized and develops into a seed…. Iridaceae. Iridaceae, the iris family of flowering plants (order Asparagales), comprising 66 genera and around 2,200 species.
What is the color of gladiolus?
Gladiolus plants produce trumpet-shaped flowers that open from bottom to top on a sword-like stem, adding drama to the landscape and bouquets alike. Hybridizers have expanded the color palette so that few flowers rival it, short of bearded irises. One color you won't find in the glad flowerbed is true blue, although plant purveyors try to persuade consumers with lavender plants bearing monikers like "Blue Moon." Many modern varieties have ruffled or frilled petals, adding to their appeal.
How tall do Gladiolus plants grow?
Fast-growing gladiolus plants are a smart choice for gardens where space is a premium; they grow to from 2-5 feet tall, adding drama to the border. Botanical Name. Gladiolus palustris. Common Name. Gladioulus. Plant Type. Corm, or bulbotumer. Mature Size. 2-5 feet.
How to keep glads off the ground?
Keep your glads off the ground by staking them with half-round plant stakes, hoop stakes, or single stem supports, depending on how many glads are in your grouping.
How long should I wait to plant gladiolus bulbs?
Wait until night temperatures reach 60 degrees Fahrenheit before you set out your gladiolus bulbs, choosing a spot in your garden that receives at least five hours of full sun each day.
What do gladiolus corms do?
The flowers attract pollinating insects to increase those tomato yields, and the bold blossom colors won't get lost between your rows of beans and squash. Plant gladiolus corms in the gaps where you've yanked out faded spring veggies like peas and lettuce.
Can you water gladiolus bulbs once?
If the weather is dry at planting time, you can water the bulbs once, but don’t water them again until you see shoots or you may encourage rot.
Can gladiolus corms cause stomach upset?
Humans who ingest gladiolus corms may have mild stomach upset. Livestock and pets may experience nausea, diarrhea, salivation, and lethargy. Call your veterinarian immediately if the animals in your care have consumed corms.
What is the flower of Gladiolus?
The Gladiolus Flower. The Mighty Sword and Gentle Blossom. In his poem, Gladioli,Gottfried Benn describes Gladiolus in an artful as well as simple way: A bunch of glads, certainly highly emblematic of creation, remote from frills of working blossom with hope of fruit: slow, durable, placid, generous, sure of kingly dreams.
What are the petals of gladiolus called?
The fragrant gladiolus flowers are large, one-sided and bisexual. The petals and the sepals almost look exactly alike so they are called tepals. Both of them are united at the base in a tube like structure that is space-age worthy in terms of appearance. The dorsal te pal is the large one and it arcs over three stamens.
Why do gladioli leaves have a whitish streak?
A whitish streak on the leaves is usually a signal that the thrip is making its home on the leaves. A natural pesticide should be used to erratic them.
What temperature do gladiolus corms need to be?
Gladiolus corms like a pH of 6 to 6.5 and they must be removed from the soil when the temperature drops below 35 degrees Fahrenheit. The gladiolus corms or tubers should be dried and then replanted when the temperate cooperates. Gladiolus Care.
What is the look of Gladiolus flowers?
The Look of the Gladiolus Flower is almost Surreal# N#There’s no doubt that flowers have a different form of consciousness that could be classified as surreal when it is compared to the human consciousness. Gladiolus flowers have a space-like quality to them that is almost fourth dimensional in appearance.#N#The species vary from giant flower spikes to very small dainty blossoms. All species grow from gladiolus blubs, but they are not really bulbs; they are called corms, which are enveloped in several layers of fibrous tunics.#N#Gladiolus stems are usually unbranched, but they have 1 to 9 narrow sword-shaped grooved leaves, which are enclosed in a sheath. The fragrant gladiolus flowers are large, one-sided and bisexual. The petals and the sepals almost look exactly alike so they are called tepals. Both of them are united at the base in a tube like structure that is space-age worthy in terms of appearance.#N#The dorsal tepal is the large one and it arcs over three stamens. The three outer tepals are narrower. The perianth is funnel shaped and has stamen attached to its base. The ovary contains a plethora of winged brown dehiscent seeds. In their center is the noticeable pellet, which is the real seed without the fine coat.
When do glads bloom?
Glads are the birth flower of August since it is grown in gardens between the months of July and September. A small rainbow of Gladiola colors in a garden or a vase can brighten up anyone’s day. Medical Uses. The dried blub which is ground into a powder has been used to treat a number of illnesses.
What was the name of the flower with long sword-shaped leaves?
The ancient Romans called the sword Gladius, and a little sword became a gladiolus , which was often used by gladiators. Pliny the illustrious Roman author dubbed the flower with long sword-shaped leaves gladiolus and the name stuck.
What is the Greek word for Gladiolus?
The ancient name for gladiolus was xiphium from the Greek word xiphos, meaning sword. Its name was later changed to gladiolus, which comes from the Latin word gladius, which also means sword.
How many gladiolus species are there?
The genus gladiolus includes 260 species with 10,000 registered cultivars that come in the colors of the rainbow. Individual blooms may be a solid color or bi-colors and run the gamut of shades of pink, red, purple, yellow, orange, white and even green.
What is the purpose of Gladiolus roots?
The English used the powdered roots of the British and Mediterranean gladiolus to make a poultice for wounds. It was thought to draw out splinters and thorns. Powdered corms of these gladioli were also mixed with goat’s milk to treat colic in babies, but beware. Many gladiolus roots are poisonous and can even cause skin rashes if the corms are nicked or bruised.
What does the Gladiolus flower mean?
The gladiolus flower symbolizes honor and remembrance, but it has other meanings too. It can also symbolize the following: 1 Strength of character 2 Faithfulness, sincerity and integrity 3 Infatuation 4 Never giving up
What color are sword flowers?
The blooms range in color from bold orange and red to pastel blues, pinks and yellows with many outstanding bi-colors.flowerbeds, but are often grown in cutting gardens to use in floral displays. The grass-like foliage resembles the blade of a sword giving these flowers a reputation as sword flowers. The blooms range in color from bold orange and ...
Why are gladiolus called sword flowers?
They are sometimes referred to a sword flowers or sword lilies due to the sword-like shape of both the foliage and the flower spike. The flower spire is said to pierce the heart of the recipient with love. The ancient name for gladiolus was xiphium from the Greek word xiphos, meaning sword.
What does the color of gladiolus mean?
Traditional meanings of flower colors may be applied to gladiolus to give them special meaning to the recipient. Red – Love and Passion. Pink – Femininity, compassion motherly love. White – Innocence and purity. Yellow – Cheerfulness and compassion. Purple – Charm, grace and mysteriousness.
What is the scientific name for Gladiolus?
The word “gladio lus” comes from the Latin word, gladius, which means sword. The Greeks used to refer to Gladiolus flowers as “xiphium,” a derivative of the Greek word “xiphos,” which also ...
What is the Greek word for Gladiolus?
The Greeks used to refer to Gladiolus flowers as “xiphium,” a derivative of the Greek word “xiphos ,” which also means sword. You can figure out how this flower got its name just by looking at it!
Why are gladiolus flowers important?
Even before today, gladiolus flowers had some pretty powerful cultural significance. These flowers were viewed as a symbol of strength by the ancient Romans, primarily because they have a strong resemblance to swords. In addition, gladiolus flowers are known to grow in the wild where other plants struggle to take root.
Why do people get gladiolus tattoos?
However, since the Latin word “gladius” means sword, you may find that people choose gladiolus tattoos because they symbolize calmness along with self-confidence. It can also symbolize strength and integrity, particularly when chosen by a man as a tattoo.
What does a yellow gladiolus flower mean?
One of the most beautiful gladiolus colors, the yellow gladiolus flower usually symbolizes positive energy, happiness, and friendship. This is common for many yellow flowers. Therefore, you can give a yellow gladiolus flower to just about anybody in your life.
Is Gladiolus a beautiful flower?
While it’s easy to assume that the gladiolus flower is simply just that – a beautiful flower – there’s actually more to the story than what might meet the eye. This flower has tons of hidden meanings, many of which you were probably never aware of.
Overview
Species
The genus Gladiolus contains about 300 species, the World Checklist of Selected Plant Families had over 276 species in 1988, As of February 2017 , it accepted 300 species.
There are 260 species of Gladiolus endemic to southern Africa, and 76 in tropical Africa. About 10 species are native to Eurasia.
Description
Gladioli grow from round, symmetrical corms (similar to crocuses) that are enveloped in several layers of brownish, fibrous tunics.
Their stems are generally unbranched, producing 1 to 9 narrow, sword-shaped, longitudinal grooved leaves, enclosed in a sheath. The lowest leaf is shortened to a cataphyll. The leaf blades can be plane or cruciform in cross section.
Ecology
The South African species were originally pollinated by long-tongued anthophorini bees, but some changes in the pollination system have occurred, allowing pollination by sunbirds, noctuid and Hawk-moths, long-tongued flies and several others. In the temperate zones of Europe many of the hybrid large flowering sorts of gladiolus can be pollinated by small well-known wasps. Actually, they are not very good pollinators because of the large flowers of the plants and the small size o…
Horticulture
Gladioli have been extensively hybridized and a wide range of ornamental flower colours are available from the many varieties. The main hybrid groups have been obtained by crossing between four or five species, followed by selection: 'Grandiflorus', 'Primulines' and 'Nanus'. They can make very good cut flowers for display.
The majority of the species in this genus are diploid with 30 chromosomes (2n=30) but the Grandi…
Cultivation
In temperate zones, the corms of most species and hybrids should be lifted in autumn and stored over winter in a frost-free place, then replanted in spring. Some species from Europe and high altitudes in Africa, as well as the small 'Nanus' hybrids, are much hardier (to at least −26 °C or −15 °F) and can be left in the ground in regions with sufficiently dry winters. 'Nanus' is hardy to Zones 5–8. The large-flowered types require moisture during the growing season, and must be individu…
In culture
• Gladiolus is the birth flower of August.
• Gladioli are the flowers associated with a fortieth wedding anniversary.
• American Ragtime composer Scott Joplin composed a rag called “Gladiolus Rag”
Bibliography
• G. R. Delpierre and N. M. du Plessis (1974). The winter-growing Gladioli of Southern Africa. Tafelberg-Uitgewers Beperk 120 colour photographs and descriptions.
• Peter Goldblatt (1996). A monograph of the genus Gladiolus in tropical Africa (83 species). Timber Press
• Peter Goldblatt, J. C. Manning (1998). Gladiolus in southern Africa: Systematics, Biology, and Evolution, including 144 watercolor paintings. Cape Town: Fernwood Press.