Gladiolus communis (Byzantine Gladiolus)

Description

The exquisite 3″ long funnel-shaped magenta to maroon flowers (about 15 per 2′ tall stalk) of this Carefree Heirloom draw amazement wherever they grow. Their delicate flowers and slender sword-shaped leaves blend well with native perennials. Blooming (early-mid Spring in Coastal SC) and dormant before Summer.Since they are dormant in summer and, they are unaffected by deep shade or long droughts of those seasons. They make great companions for winter dormant perennials.under planting for deciduous trees or along the southern edge of evergreens. Introduced to the US from the Mediterranean area in 1576, they were widely planted in the past. Multiplying by cormlets, the clumps get larger every year. They naturalize in gardens but do not invade natural areas. . In SC, there are plantings that were abandoned over 150 years ago that  beautify their surroundings every Spring.

Blooming before many native perennials they provide a sugar-rich nectar attracting Hummingbirds, Butterflies and Bees. Since Hummingbirds are migrating north during this period, they provide much needed energy for their trip. Larval host of several moths including the beautifull Large Yellow Underwing, they provide good hunting grounds for Mother Birds.  I have never noticed that the caterpillars diminish flowering or weaken the plants. 

 During the growing season, they prefer organic rich soil with average moisture and sun or part shade. TWinter hardy in zones 7-10, dig before hard freezes and replant in the Spring further north.  In colder areas, winter mulching is recommended. Plant corms 4” deep and 4-6” apart in groups of at least 5-7.