Arcas

Gladiolus is a genus of perennial flowering plants that grow from corms (bulb-like underground storage organs) and are beloved for their tall, dramatic flower spikes. These striking plants produce sword-shaped leaves and towering stems that can reach 2-5 feet in height, topped with multiple funnel-shaped flowers arranged in dense, vertical clusters called racemes.

The flowers bloom sequentially from bottom to top along the spike, creating an extended flowering period. Gladioli come in virtually every color except true blue, including vibrant reds, pinks, yellows, oranges, purples, whites, and many bi-colored or ruffled varieties. Each individual flower typically measures 3-5 inches across and has six petals with prominent stamens.

Native primarily to South Africa, with some species from the Mediterranean region, gladioli have become popular garden plants worldwide. They bloom in summer and are prized as cut flowers due to their impressive height and long-lasting blooms. The plants prefer full sun and well-drained soil, and in colder climates, the corms must be lifted and stored indoors during winter. Gladioli are excellent for creating dramatic vertical elements in flower gardens and are commonly grown in rows for cutting. There are over 260 species and countless cultivars, ranging from miniature varieties to giant exhibition types.