Named for their sword shaped leaves, GLADIOLI (derived from the Latin word 'gladius' meaning sword) is also commonly known as the 'Sword Lily'. Symbolizing strength of character and moral integrity, GLADIOLI also represent infatuation, with a bouquet conveying to a recipient that they 'pierce' the giver's heart with passion.

Striking and colorful with towering stems I first added them to my gardens about 10 years ago and my efforts were NOT very successful. Flowers in my gardens need to be tough to endure the long Vermont winters. GLADIOLI, I discovered, need to be dug up in the fall and stored inside until the following spring- strike one. Additionally, I prefer perennials that do not take a lot of fussing with to look good. The GLADIOLI I planted was 4' tall and required staking to keep them upright- strike two.

Two years ago I tried again w/ a variety called 'Gladiator'. While the purple stamens and creamy white flowers tinged with purple made for dramatic night-time photos (as seen here) they were not strong enough to withstand a fierce summer storm....most of the tall stalks broke in the wind....strike three! Probably will be another few years before I try growing GLADIOLI again.