Eastern Gladiolus (Gladiolus x) offers stunning spikes of colorful flowers in summer, adding vertical interest to gardens. These hardy bulbs are relatively easy to grow.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Requires at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal flowering and growth.
Moderate
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist during active growth, then reduce significantly as foliage yellows.
Well-drained loam
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Thrives in temperatures between 15-25°C during the growing season. Corms need cooler, dry conditions for winter dormancy.
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed with balanced fertilizer during growth, switching to high-potassium before blooming.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water consistently during the growing season, keeping the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Reduce watering significantly in late summer as the foliage begins to yellow and die back.
Ensure good drainage to prevent rot, especially during dormancy.
Remove spent flower stalks immediately after blooming to prevent seed formation and redirect energy to the bulb for future growth. Cut back yellowing and dying foliage to the ground once it has completely withered, typically in late summer or early autumn.
Propagate by dividing corms during dormancy (late autumn to early spring). Separate healthy offsets (cormels) from the parent corm.
Plant the cormels shallowly in well-draining soil, and they should establish and flower in 1-2 years.
Gladiolus are typically grown from corms that are lifted annually or left in the ground in milder climates. If lifting, store corms in a cool, dry, dark place over winter.
Replant them in spring after the danger of frost has passed, ensuring good soil drainage.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Eastern Gladiolus (Gladiolus x)
Where Eastern Gladiolus (Gladiolus x) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Family | Iridaceae |
| Genus | Gladiolus |
| Species | Gladiolus x |
Similar in genus Gladiolus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
