Gladiolus splendens

Plant type

bulb / corm / tuber

size

H: 2'
W: 1'

planting zones

9a-11

Gladiolus splendens plant details

Gladiolus splendens is a broadleaf deciduous bulb / corm / tuber with green foliage. In spring and winter red flowers emerge. Features glossy and grassy texture. Attracts birds and hummingbirds. Grows well with sun and regular - low water. Prefers to be dry in summer, dry when dormant. Does well in well-drained soil. A good option if you're seeking something verticillium wilt resistant.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Gladiolus splendens

Plant type: bulb / corm / tuber
Plant family: iridaceae
Foliage: deciduous green
Mature size: 1 FT wide, 2 FT tall
Flowers: red blooms in spring and winter
Uses: border plant, container plant, cutting garden, showy, unique

GROWING CONDITIONS for Gladiolus splendens

USDA Zones: 9a - 11
Sun exposure: sun
Watering frequency: regular - low
Resistant to: verticillium wilt
Soil needs: well-drained

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

Splendid indeed! Stifly upright 2' plus stems with rows of vivid carmine blooms arrive in February & March on this very little known Glad. Overall, the species is similar, but larger in all aspects to G. cunonius. Like cunonius, the flowers are oddly un-Gladiola like - shaped like small red birds, with diminished lower tepals. The flowers are perfectly formed & colored to attract South Africa's gorgeous sunbirds, but it should be just as effective at attracting North America's lovely hummingbirds. A no-brainer to grow, not needing rich soil, or much more than rain, & a beautiful cut flower. Grow in pots or in the ground. A dry period during Summer dormancy is recommended, but I suspect not mandatory, since this species is often found near streams in the wild.