Overview
Gladiolus communis subsp. byzantinus is a columnar upright bulbs in the genus Gladiolus, part of the Iridaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 0.5-1 metres tall and 0-0.1 metre wide, reaching full size in around 2-5 years. Gladiolus communis subsp. byzantinus grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H3. Suggested uses include cut flowers.
About
Gladiolus communis subsp. byzantinus, known as Byzantine gladiolus, is a perennial bulbous plant in the iris family (Iridaceae). It grows with a columnar upright habit, reaching heights of 0.5 to 1 metre over 2 to 5 years. This deciduous plant thrives in full sun on well-drained soils such as chalk, loam, or sand, and prefers sheltered south- or west-facing aspects. It is notable in spring and summer, making it a striking addition to gardens with suitable conditions.
About the genus
Gladiolus is a genus of perennial cormous flowering plants in the iris family (Iridaceae).
Wikipedia contributors, "Gladiolus", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Gladiolus
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Gladiolus
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Chalk, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H3
Plant details
Gladiolus communis subsp. byzantinus size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Bulbs
- Habit
- Columnar upright
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 0.5-1 metres
- Spread
- 0-0.1 metre
- Time to full height
- 2-5 years
- Suggested uses
- Cut flowers
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Gladiolus communis subsp. byzantinus
- Propagation
- Offsets
- Pest resistance
- Gladiolus thrip, Aphids, Slugs
- Disease resistance
- Gladiolus corm rot, Grey moulds (Botrytis), Fusarium bulb rot, Gladiolus core rot, Gladiolus dry rot, Gladiolus scab, Neck rot, Fungal leaf spot, Virus diseases
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Gladiolus communis subsp. byzantinus?
Gladiolus communis subsp. byzantinus prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Gladiolus communis subsp. byzantinus need?
Gladiolus communis subsp. byzantinus is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
How big does Gladiolus communis subsp. byzantinus grow?
Gladiolus communis subsp. byzantinus reaches a height of 0.5-1 metres and a spread of 0-0.1 metre. It takes around 2-5 years to reach full size.
Is Gladiolus communis subsp. byzantinus hardy in the UK?
Gladiolus communis subsp. byzantinus has an RHS hardiness rating of H3, meaning it is half-hardy, tolerating -5 to 1°C, and may need winter protection in colder areas.
How do I propagate Gladiolus communis subsp. byzantinus?
Offsets.
More in the Gladiolus genus
- Gladiolus 'Nicholas' (S)
- Gladiolus 'Rose Laguna'Sword Lily
- Gladiolus dalenii 'Boone'
- Gladiolus liliaceusSword Lily
- Gladiolus primulinus
- Gladiolus 'Chemistry'Sword Lily
- Gladiolus 'Fat Boy'PBR
- Gladiolus Hybrids and Primulinus HybridsSword Lily
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