Overview
Gladiolus inflatus is a upright bulbs in the genus Gladiolus, part of the Iridaceae family, with green foliage. Gladiolus inflatus grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include cut flowers, borders and containers.
About
Gladiolus inflatus, commonly known as Tulbagh bell, is a perennial cultivar in the Iridaceae family. It grows upright from corms and features green, sword-like leaves with tall flower spikes bearing funnel-shaped blooms. Suitable for full sun and well-drained neutral loam soil, it thrives best in sheltered, south-, west-, or east-facing aspects. Hardy to UK zone H5, it is ideal for summer interest in borders, containers, or as cut flowers. Plant corms 10-15cm deep after the last frost, staking tall varieties as needed, and propagate by division or cormlets.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Gladiolus
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Loam
- Soil pH
- Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H5
Plant details
Gladiolus inflatus size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Bulbs
- Habit
- Upright
- Foliage
- Green
- Suggested uses
- Cut flowers, Borders, Containers
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Gladiolus inflatus
- Propagation
- Division, Cormlets
- Pest resistance
- Aphids, Slugs
- Disease resistance
- Botrytis, Fusarium bulb rot, Fungal leaf spot
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Gladiolus inflatus?
Gladiolus inflatus prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Gladiolus inflatus need?
Gladiolus inflatus grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
Is Gladiolus inflatus hardy in the UK?
Gladiolus inflatus has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.
How do I propagate Gladiolus inflatus?
Division, Cormlets.
More in the Gladiolus genus
- Gladiolus 'Adele'
- Gladiolus 'Adrenalin'PBR (L)
- Gladiolus 'Alexandra the Great'PBR
- Gladiolus 'Amber Mystique' (L)
- Gladiolus 'Andre Viette'
- Gladiolus 'Arctic Day' (M/E)
- Gladiolus 'At Night'PBR (L)
- Gladiolus 'August Days' (L)