Gladiolus x byzantinus

Byzantine gladiolus is a perennial bulb in the sword lily (Iridaceae) family that is native to the Mediterranean region of Europe and Africa.  The genus name comes from the Latin word gladius meaning sword in reference to the leaves. The plant can grow up to 3 feet tall with showy spikes of magenta to purple tubular flowers that are more orchid-like rather than like the modern glads. The long sword-shaped leaves grow in a fan shape

The showy flowers are in clusters of up to 15 blooms and appear in late spring to early summer.  Plants prefer fertile well-drained soil in full sun but tolerate some shade. Plant corms about 3-4 inches deep in fall and about 6-8 inches apart in groups of 5-7. Once flowering has stopped, allow the foliage to grow until it starts turning yellow to provide energy to the corms for the following year. In colder climates the corms need to be dug up in fall, dried and stored in a cool place until spring.

Use this plant in naturalized areas, borders, groups, English gardens or cottage gardens.

This plant was a favorite in the old south and can still be found growing in old cemeteries, abandoned home sites, and ditch banks. In 1993 it was awarded the prestigious Award of Garden Merit by the Royal Horticulture Society. In 2006 it was named the Heirloom Bulb of the Year.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: No significant problems. Watch for fusarium rot, gray mold (Botrytis), aster yellows and rust. Thrips can cause significant problems. Aphids may appear. Taller flowering stems appreciate staking or support to prevent falling in winds.

VIDEO Created by Elisabeth Meyer for "Edibles, Bulbs, and Houseplants" a plant identification course offered in partnership with Longwood Gardens.   

More information on Gladiolus.