Gladiolus

Gladiolus

There are many weeds in this genus, thus we offer only a few selected plants worthy of attention in the garden (species such as flanagannii or symonsii when we have them) or under cool glass (the balance of the South African species offered).

Under glass plant into a well drained, gritty compost in November, keep barely moist and cool to delay leaf growth, once this starts in spring, give plenty of water and feed, to promote flowers. Then dry over the summer and start all over the next (late) autumn.

The species which we offer which will take garden cultivation usually need a gritty, well-drained, but humus-rich soil. A mild spot will suit even the hardy ones. Do not confuse these species with the common Mediterranean species such as byzantinus, those do not have a place in gardens, they are weeds!



Ordering of different species from Autumn and Spring lists.

Gladiolus carmineus

This species is unique in its autumnal blooming, it flowers in September in the UK, before the leaves come into growth. It normally has grey-green foliage and flower stems, the latter carrying 4-5 large flowers of rich deep pink to near-carmine, marked on the lower petals with white.

Hardy in the UK with good drainage and sun being its ideal combination, it does not need lifting for winter. It is native to South Africa growing there on sandstone cliffs.

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Gladiolus carmineusglacarcar £5.00

Gladiolus imbricatus

RS.0572 Gladiolus imbricatus

This is indisputably the best of the Mediterranean species, a genus that contains a lot of weeds as well as this gem.

A native of Turkish marshes, it makes a dense spike of large flowers with very rich colouring, usually in shades of deep purple to carmine. It is regarded as the hardiest for very cold climates and seems to have no other demerit, in gardens, other than its rarity.

Sunny well drained site with adequate moisture when in growth.

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Gladiolus imbricatusglaimbimb £4.00
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