There are over one hundred and eighty species within the genus.

Leaves are long, upright or arching and sword like.

Flowers are borne on one side of spikes which can be erect or slightly arching.

Flowers are funnel to flute shape.

Flower colours are red, white, pink, very pale green or yellow.

The most common groups of Gladiolus are Grandiflorus, Nanus and Primulinus.

These gardening plants will need staking especially in exposed areas.

Essential info

Genus: Gladiolus

Family: Iridaceae

Species: Carneus

Common Names: Sword Lily.

Classification: Corm.

Height: 40cm (16inches).

Flowering: Spring, summer and autumn (fall), depending on species.

Where to plant info

These gardening plants are especially prone to aphid attack during summer and may need regular treatment to control this.

But having said that they are a real majestic gardening plant and in the right locations are an excellent addition to any planting scheme.

Where: Grow them in spring, summer and autumn (fall) flowering borders or beds.

They are best grown in large groups.

They are excellent as cut flowers.

Site: They prefer partial shade.

They need shade from winds.

Soil: Any rich and free draining soil.

Propagation info By seed im spring.

Sow seeds immediately after you have collected them.

The fresher the seed the higher the germination rate.

Best germination temperature: 65 deg F.

Time from sowing to germination: 6 - 10 weeks.

How to sow seeds..... read more

Or propagate by division in early spring.

Or by cormlets in late winter, early spring.

Corms may need lifting and kept frost free in colder areas.

If you want any further information on this plant or how to propagate and grow any of your favourite gardening plants successfully please feel free to contact us

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