Gladiolus nanus Nathalie

Gladiolus nanus 'Nathalie' is a dwarf variety that creates a flowering whirlwind in late spring with beautiful salmon-pink blooms tinged with coral-red. It is of average hardiness and can remain in the ground in regions with mild winters. Its short stems can resist wind. Its silhouette is composed of graceful stems adorned with lively, light, and colourful flowers, like a flight of butterflies. It will find its place in natural gardens and undoubtedly in cottage gardens.

Cultivated gladioli are hybrids, belonging to the Iridaceae family. They are divided into 3 major groups: Grandiflorus (large-flowered), Primulinus (early-flowering), and Nanus (butterfly). 'Nathalie' belongs to the butterfly group. It blooms in June, before the large-flowered gladioli. These gladioli are characterised by their bright coloured spots reminiscent of butterfly wings. Each corm produces two or three slender spikes, 20 to 40cm (8 to 16in) long, bearing flowers 4 to 5cm (2in) in diameter. The subtle shades range from salmon-pink to cream, with a coral-pink spot. The foliage is tapering, sword-shaped, and glaucous green marked with purple at the base. The leaves are arranged in a fan, forming a clump 80cm (32in) tall.

Dwarf gladioli are hardier than large gladioli. In the garden, their elegant silhouette blends well with grasses and perennials with lighter blooms. Plant them in groups in borders with sage, tobacco plants, willowherb, bee balm, wallflowers, and forget-me-nots. They are perfect for cottage gardens. 'Nathalie' will look particularly beautiful planted in a large container. For bouquets, pick gladioli early in the morning when they have opened two or three flowers. Leave 5 to 6 leaves per stem to help the corm to continue its development. Remove the first two buds at the top of the flower stem. Plant at intervals every ten days in March/April. This way, you will have flowers all summer.

Gladiolus gets its name from the shape of its sword-like leaves, derived from the Latin word gladius.