Overview
Gladiolus palustris is a upright bulbs in the genus Gladiolus, part of the Iridaceae family, with green foliage. Gladiolus palustris 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 palustris, common name marsh gladiolus or sword lily, is a herbaceous perennial plant belonging to the genus Gladiolus of the family Iridaceae. The genus name Gladiolus is the Latin diminutive of gladius, a sword, while the specific Latin name palustris, meaning growing in marshes, refers to the alleged environment of this species. In the wild it grows across Albania, Austria, Baltic States, Belarus, Bulgaria and other regions. Grow it in full sun and loam soil. In UK gardens it is hardy in most of the UK (RHS H5). It works well for cut flowers, borders and containers. It tolerates neutral soils, well-drained conditions and south-facing, west-facing and east-facing aspects. Plant corms 10-15cm deep in fertile, well-drained soil in full sun after last frost. Stake tall varieties.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Gladiolus palustris
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 palustris size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Bulbs
- Habit
- Upright
- Foliage
- Green
- Suggested uses
- Cut flowers, Borders, Containers
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Gladiolus palustris
- 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 palustris?
Gladiolus palustris prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Gladiolus palustris need?
Gladiolus palustris grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
Is Gladiolus palustris hardy in the UK?
Gladiolus palustris 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 palustris?
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)