Position

Sun exposure:
Full sun
Aspect:
South facing, west facing
Position in border:
Middle

Soil

Well Drained / Light / Sandy

Perfect for bridging the gap between the last of the spring bulbs and the first of the summer perennials, Gladiolus communis subsp. byzantinus is a gorgeous, late-spring flowering bulb bearing spikes of funnel-shaped flowers in the most intense magenta pink.

It works well as a planting partner to silver-leafed plants and also in meadow-style plantings, mixed with other bright colours. In the right site, it can be naturalised, too. It also makes a great focal point as part of a container display, and makes an excellent cut flower.

Unlike other gladiolus, Gladiolus communis subsp. byzantinus benefits from being planted in autumn. Plant the corms 10-16cm deep in well-drained soil. Use grit or sharp sand to aid drainage if you need to.

Plant calendar

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Plantyesyesyes
Flowersyesyesyes
Divideyesyesyes

Gladiolus and wildlife

Gladiolus has no particular known value to wildlife in the UK.

Is Gladiolus poisonous?

Gladiolus toxins are absorbed by the skin. Its roots are toxic.

Toxic to:
Is known to attract Cats
Cats
Is known to attract Dogs
Dogs
Is known to attract Horses
Horses
No reported toxicity to:
Is not known to attract Birds
Birds
Is not known to attract Livestock
Livestock
Is not known to attract People
People
Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement