Gladiolus
Gladiolus
Family: Iridaceae · Also called Sword Lily, Gladiola, Glads, Bertera, Dortania, Ballosporum
Green & Fresh · Summer bloomer
The gladiolus is a flower of stature and strength. Rising on tall, rigid stems, its blooms open sequentially from bottom to top, creating a dramatic cascade of color. With over 300 wild species originating primarily from southern Africa, it has been hybridized into thousands of cultivars spanning every color.
strength, integrity, honor
In the Victorian language of flowers, gladiolus means “Strength of character and moral integrity”. Named from the Latin 'gladius' (sword) for its sword-shaped leaves. Roman gladiators were associated with this flower, victorious fighters were showered with gladioli. In parts of Africa, the corms are still used in traditional medicine.
Did You Know?
Gladiolus corms were once ground into flour and baked into bread during food shortages. The plant's sap was also used as a poultice to draw out splinters, the 'sword lily' that heals rather than harms.
Grasslands and rocky slopes of sub-Saharan Africa and the Mediterranean basin
Gladiolus is native to Africa, Mediterranean. It naturally grows in grasslands and rocky slopes of sub-saharan africa and the mediterranean basin.
Scent Profile
“A subtle, green-floral fragrance, understated and grounding, more felt than smelled.”
Quick Reference
- Scientific NameGladiolus
- FamilyIridaceae
- Native ToAfrica, Mediterranean
- Bloom SeasonSummer
- LifespanPerennial
- Birth MonthAugust
Cultural Significance
Named from the Latin 'gladius' (sword) for its sword-shaped leaves. Roman gladiators were associated with this flower, victorious fighters were showered with gladioli. In parts of Africa, the corms are still used in traditional medicine.