Color:

Gladiolus

Gladiolus cultivars

Bulb

Popular

Iris Family

Tall spikes with multiple flowers opening from bottom to top. Named from Latin 'gladius' (sword). August birth flower. Dramatic height in arrangements. Strong stems.

Bloom Season

Summer, Fall

Habitat

Temperate

Where to Buy

Find local florists carrying Gladiolus

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Perfect For

FuneralSympathyBirthday

Care & Vase Life

Stays fresh for 7 to 14 days

when properly cared for

Cut when bottom 2-3 flowers are open

Remove spent blooms as they fade to encourage upper buds

Needs a tall, heavy vase to support the height

Flowers open sequentially from bottom to top

Cut when bottom flowers show color

Remove spent blooms as they fade

Flowers open sequentially over 7-12 days

Change water every 2-3 days

Fragrance Profile

No Scent

Gladiolus have no fragrance

Safety Information

Toxic to Cats

Toxic to Dogs

Corms (bulbs) are most toxic. May cause drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy in pets if ingested.

Fun Facts

Named from Latin "gladius" (sword) due to sword-shaped leaves

Roman gladiators wore gladiolus corms for protection in battle

There are nearly 300 species and over 10,000 cultivated varieties

The gladiolus is the August birth flower and symbolizes strength and integrity

Origin & History

Native to Africa & Mediterranean

Most gladiolus species are native to sub-Saharan Africa, with some from the Mediterranean. Roman gladiators wore gladiolus corms as good luck charms, believing they provided strength and protection. Victorian hybridizers created the large-flowered varieties we use today.