All About Gladiolus – History, Meaning, Facts, Care & More

One popular flower that grows with tall stems is the Gladiolus. It develops from around and symmetrical corm and appears to be like a sword. No wonder why the flowers are named after gladiators. This is a spiky plant that is available in a variety of colors that include pink, orange, white, and yellow and can also grow up to five feet. In the early days, this flower is known to represent good luck and protection. It is also the birth flower of August and a traditional gift for the 40^th anniversary.

History of Gladiolus

They believed that most members of the gladiolus family came from Asia or Africa. It is widely available in the Middle East and Northern Africa. In the 19^th century, horticulturists started to produce hybrids of gladiolus but failed until James Colville successfully grown fertile hybrids. The multiple florets and high bud counts are something that you should thank for to European gardeners.

The roots of gladiolus can be crushed to form a powder that can be used to treat wounds. It is also considered effective for babies with colic by combining the powder with goat’s milk. However, you have to make sure that you prepare the roots properly to prevent it from causing skin rashes. People in Congo, use the plant as a source of carbohydrates that can help them stay fit. Nowadays, gladiolus is planted in the backyard or along the fences.

Meanings of Gladiolus

When it comes to flowers, each type of flower symbolizes different meanings. So if ever that you are planning to send flowers to your loved ones, it is important that you are aware of its meanings. You can also ask help from a trusted florist who is more knowledgeable about what each type of flower means. Listed below are some of the meanings of Gladiolus.

• Faithfulness

When it comes to being honest and showing faithfulness, gladiolus can be the perfect type of flower that you can use to express these feelings. You can give it to your special someone on Valentine’s Day showing that you are already prepared to commit.

• Infatuation

Expressing your deep admiration to someone can be shown by simply sending a bouquet of gladiolus. This can be an ideal flower to show respect and infatuation.

• Integrity

If it is hard for you to say thank you to someone, then you can give gladiolus flowers to show your appreciation. Gladiolus also symbolizes strong moral values and integrity.

• Strength

Overcoming difficulties in life can be expressed with gladiolus. It symbolizes strength thus making it a perfect gift if you want to give support to a friend or someone special.

Interesting Facts about Gladiolus

• Xiphium is the ancient name for gladiolus which is derived from the Greek word xiphos which means sword.
• Gladiolus is the birth flower for the month of August.
• The flower of gladiolus can grow up to 4 feet making them perfect for tall arrangements. They even look like a sword and was named after gladiators.
• Gladiolus flowers from the Mediterranean and Britain are used to treat ailments such as diarrhea, common colds, and constipation.
• There are parts of the flower that can be poisonous when eaten while some varieties can cause allergic reactions.
• Gladiolus plant can be very sturdy when grown under full sunlight. This allows them to store energy that they can use for the following year.

 

How to Take Care of Gladiolus

If you are planning to grow gladiolus in your garden, then it is important that you are aware of how you should take care of it. Gladiolus is perfect in places with a tropical climate because the plants enjoy the heat of the summer. All the efforts that you’ll make in taking care of gladiolus will surely reward you in the end because you can possibly produce flowers in varying colors to beautify your garden. Listed below are some tips to consider when growing gladiolus.

• When thinking about what soil to use for gladiolus, then you can go for slightly acidic soil. You have to make sure that the soil is well-drained to get the best results. The type of soil will also affect how deep you will plant gladiolus.
• Though gladiolus loves lots of water, it doesn’t mean that you will have to keep the soil wet. Just make sure to keep an inch of moisture every week but never let them stay in the water.

 

Different Varieties of Gladiolus

Gladiolus has more than 250 varieties for you to choose from. Listed below are just some of the popular choices you can have.

• Black Star – This type of gladiolus is deep purple color and normally grows up to 60 inches.
• Candyman – If you love pink flowers, then you can have this type of gladiolus in deep pink.
• Black Beauty – This gladiolus can grow up to 5 feet in height and presented in deep burgundy shade.
• Dream’s End – This produces large orange blooms and can grow up to three feet high.
• Green Star – When looking for a gladiolus perfect for a flower arrangement then you can have this type which is available in bright yellow blooms thus making it catchy.
• Prins Claus – This is another attractive type of gladiolus with combine colors of pink and white.
• Peter Pears – Available in peach blooms this gladiolus flower is bright red at the center.