Gladiolus - the birth
flower for the month of
August
Origins
The word gladiolus means
"little sword" in Latin.
Named for the shape of its
leaves, the gladiolus
belongs to the Iridaceae
family. The first of the
250-300 existing gladiolus
species originated in South
Africa and the
Mediterranean region. The
flower was later brought to
Europe, where it was
hybridized to create
today's many gladiolus
cultivars, bearing almost
every color except true
blue.
Meaning
Strength of character;
Sincerity; Generosity;
Natural grace
Availability and Vase Life
Year round.
7-14 days.
Care and
Handling
Use non-fluoridated water
if possible as small
amounts of fluoride will
cause tip and leaf burn.
Break off the top inch of
stem to promote water
uptake.
Glads
take up a large amount of
water so check and
replenish water daily. To
force bud opening, use a
warm (100-110 F) solution
mixed with flower food, and
cover with a clear plastic
bag. Keep in a warm (70-80
F) location while forcing.
Design
Uses
Used in a wide range of
designs. A bouquet of
gladiolus in a glass bowl
makes a good contemporary
arrangement. Blossoms can
be glued together to form
composite flowers for
wedding work.
In
virtually every color but
true blue.
Gladiolus
hybrid nanus
(Miniature Gladiolus)
Availability and Vase
Life
March to July
5-7 days.
Design Uses
Excellent line material for
arrangements. Has a more
delicate texture than
gladiolus.
Courtesy:
Flower Promotion Organization
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