Common Sword Lily
gladiolus communis
Also known as: ["Sword Lily","Gladiola"]
Overview
A perennial flowering plant with tall spikes of funnel-shaped flowers, native to the Mediterranean region.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Iridaceae |
| Genus: | Gladiolus |
| Botanical Name: | Gladiolus communis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in full sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent corm rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering; annually in late fall or early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light (removing spent blooms) to moderate (cutting back yellowed foliage).
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day) with some afternoon shade in hot climates. Adjust for seasonal light intensity.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants to full sun gradually; protect from harsh midday sun; ensure proper ventilation in indoor settings.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate pots for even growth; use sheer curtains in intense sun; avoid direct indoor light for prolonged periods.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water at the base to avoid foliage disease; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; stop watering when foliage yellows post-bloom.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with added organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes; amend with grit if needed.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C) during growth; tolerates cooler nights but avoids frost.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize after planting corms; stop when foliage yellows; water before feeding to prevent root burn.
Propagation
Methods
Corm division (offsets) or seed (slower method).
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Separate healthy corms.
- Plant 4–5 inches deep.
- Water lightly.
- Protect from frost.
Best Time: Divide corms in late summer after foliage dies back; sow seeds in spring.
Environment
Warm (65–70°F/18–21°C), high humidity (60–70%), and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand for offsets; sterile seed starting mix for seeds.
Hormone
Not necessary for corm division; optional for seeds to encourage germination.
Timeline
Offsets may flower in 1–2 years; seeds take 2–3 years to bloom.
Tools Needed
Garden knife, trowel, pots, sterile soil mix.
Quick Tips
Store corms in a cool, dry place before planting; use fresh medium for seeds.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut flower spikes at the base; trim foliage only when fully yellowed.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flower spikes to encourage side growth; cut back foliage only after it yellows naturally.
Tools
Sharp bypass pruners, clean shears.
Checklist
Use clean tools; cut at the base; avoid cutting green foliage; dispose of debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Late summer or early fall after foliage dies back.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove corms, trim dead roots, replant 4–5 inches deep in fresh, well-draining soil.
Suggestions
Repot corms every 2–3 years or when overcrowded; divide offsets during repotting.
Checklist
Inspect corms for rot; use fresh soil; ensure proper depth; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; avoid wetting foliage; ensure drainage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture without waterlogging. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during active growth and blooming, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in dormancy. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch, stunted growth, bud drop, or premature flowering in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Stops growth, may cause root rot, or damage flower spikes if exposed to frost.
Solution: Mulch heavily in winter; move containers indoors; use frost cloth for protection.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, reduced flowering, or premature bud drop in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering; use reflective mulch to reduce soil temperature.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute as directed; apply during active growth; avoid foliage contact.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 3–4 weeks during active growth, reducing in late summer. Avoid high-nitrogen formulas.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal symptoms if they ingest parts of Gladiolus communis. The toxic compounds in the corms and leaves can cause irritation and discomfort in felines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Gladiolus communis corms and leaves can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant contains compounds that may irritate the stomach lining and cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicGladiolus communis contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested. The corms and leaves are the primary toxic parts, containing substances that may irritate the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are Gladiolus plants toxic to pets?
A: Yes, they are mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should Gladiolus be watered?
A: Water moderately, ensuring the soil is moist but not waterlogged, especially during blooming.
Q: Can Gladiolus be grown indoors?
A: Gladiolus are primarily outdoor plants due to their height and need for full sun; they are not typically suited for indoor cultivation.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Iridaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
