About
Gladiolus palustris is a wild gladiolus of wet meadows and marshes in central Europe producing the characteristic erect, fan-shaped foliage and strong, unbranched spikes of rose-red, funnel-shaped flowers. A charming and ornamental species for a moist, sunny border.
About the genus
Gladiolus, the sword lilies, are cormous perennials with fans of upright, sword-shaped leaves and tall spikes of funnel-shaped flowers in summer. They range from tall, large-flowered border hybrids to smaller, elegant wild species from Africa, the Mediterranean and Asia.
Plant details
Suggested usesBorders, cutting gardens, containers. Outstanding as cut flowers.
Care notes
CultivationPlant corms 10-15cm deep in fertile, well-drained soil in full sun after last frost. Stake tall varieties.
PruningCut flower spikes when lowest buds open. Lift corms after foliage yellows in autumn; store frost-free.
PropagationSeparate cormlets when lifting in autumn. Grow on for 2-3 years to flowering size.
Pest resistanceThrips can damage flowers and foliage. Western flower thrips especially troublesome.
Disease resistanceBotrytis, fusarium corm rot, and gladiolus scab. Discard affected corms. Rotate planting sites.