Gladiolus grandiflorus Mix - Sword Lily

Gladiolus grandiflorus Mix brings together several varieties of large-flowered gladioli chosen for the beauty of their generous corollas. They sport soft or vibrant colours that are either solid or bicoloured, depending on the plants. The flowers cluster on tall floral spikes that are visible from afar in flower beds. Gladiolus, combining a majestic habit and fanciful colours, creates astonishing contrasts, elegant combinations, or romantic associations, both in the ground and in homemade bouquets.

The genus Gladiolus belongs to the Iridaceae family. Gladioli originate from Africa, Europe, and the Middle East. The most colourful gladiolus species come from South Africa. Cultivated gladioli are hybrids with large flowers, divided into 3 main groups: Grandiflorus (with large flowers), Primulinus (early), and Nanus (butterflies). This mix gathers Grandiflorus varieties. It is a perennial herbaceous plant with corms (globose bulbs) and broad sword-shaped leaves arranged in a fan shape. It forms a clump that reaches approximately 90cm (35in) in height, depending on growing conditions. The leaves are topped by a spike-like inflorescence, with funnel-shaped flowers that exceed 10cm (4in) in diameter, arranged unilaterally, almost on the same side of the sturdy floral stem.

Gladioli and their colourful flower stalks are a symbol of the 1970s and somewhat formal floral arrangements. While they are irreplaceable in bouquets, their silhouette in gardens needs the presence of plants with lush foliage that will enhance their somewhat heavy flowers. Plant them in groups in beds with salvias, small grasses, linarias, monardas, wallflowers, and forget-me-nots to create large colourful bouquets. They are regulars in cottage gardens. For bouquets, cut the flower stalks when the first floret starts to open. Plant them at intervals of two weeks from early spring until the end of June to have flowers in the house and garden all summer long.