Height and a calm look
A white gladiolus spike can reach well over a metre, with up to 20 trumpet-shaped florets. The petals are often ruffled, and some white varieties have a cream, green or pale pink throat. It is a flower for scale: one tall stem in a heavy vase can fill an entrance hall on its own, which is why it often turns up at big events.
Symbolism and settings
In the language of flowers, the gladiolus is traditionally linked with strength of character, integrity and remembrance, and white adds purity. It features in weddings, christenings, memorial tributes and church flowers. For a funeral in the Australian summer, a spike lasts longer in a cool room than in a warm car, so keep it shaded on the way.
Searching for "gladiola" and "gladiolus"
You will find several spellings. "Gladiola" is a common alternative in speech, and "gladioli" is the plural. They all refer to the same plant, Gladiolus.
Growing white
- Plant corms in spring, pointed end up, about 10 to 15 cm deep.
- Place them in full sun, in soil with good drainage.
- Water regularly while the leaves grow, and feed after the spikes show.
- Check weeds.org.au or your state agency, because some Gladiolus species from Africa and the Mediterranean have escaped into bushland in parts of southern Australia, and it is better not to plant those.
White blooms mark easily, so stake the spikes before a windy day and cut them in the cool of the morning.
Keeping animals away
According to the ASPCA, gladiolus is toxic to dogs, cats and horses. Keep vases and corms out of reach.
