Common Name: Gladiolus
Family: Iridaceae
Plant Type: Tender Bulb (Cormous Perennial)
Hardiness Zones: 8–10 (grown as annual or lifted in colder zones)
Height: 2.0 to 5.0 feet
Spread: 0.5 to 1.0 foot
Bloom Time: Mid to late summer (July to September)
Bloom Description: Large, showy flowers in a wide range of colors arranged on tall spikes
Sun Exposure: Full sun
Water Needs: Medium
Soil Preference: Rich, well-drained soil
Maintenance Level: Moderate
Suggested Use: Cutting gardens, annual beds, borders
Attracts: Pollinators, especially bees and hummingbirds
Tolerates: Heat, drought once established
Notable Features: Bold floral spikes, excellent cut flower, vibrant color variety
Native Range: South Africa and Mediterranean regions; not native to North America.
Nebraska Growing Notes:
Gladiolus are popular summer bulbs grown as annuals in Nebraska due to their tenderness. Plant corms in mid to late spring after the danger of frost has passed. In most of Nebraska (Zones 5–6), corms must be lifted and stored indoors over winter to protect them from freeze damage.
They’re especially valued in cutting gardens and annual borders where dramatic color and vertical interest are desired. For succession blooming, stagger plantings every 1–2 weeks through early summer.
Landscape Use:
Best used in cutting gardens, behind shorter annuals or perennials in mixed beds, or as temporary vertical accents. Excellent for floral displays, bouquets, and competitive floral shows.
Caution:
Tall flower spikes may need staking, especially in windy locations. Do not plant in heavy, poorly drained soils—gladiolus corms are prone to rot in wet conditions.
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