These are the very famous "hardy" Gladiolus. They're actually a different species from the glads we all know, and they are beautiful, but shorter, with somewhat different flowers. As for the hardiness, they should be called "hardier" glads, instead of "hardy glads", since they are not winter hardy in severe winters. But they can be successfully left in the ground to return the following spring in warmer zones. They're not as showy as tall gladiolus, but definitely worth a try in your garden. And of course, everyone knows gladiolus are great in a vase. So be sure to plant plenty where you can cut them. They're inexpensive, and few other flowers give you so much color for the cost. When frost threatens, you can just forget them, and buy new ones in spring, or dig up the bulbs and store them until the following spring. Don't hesitate. Enjoy gladiolus this summer. You can't have too many.
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Botanical Name: Gladiolus nanus
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Common Name: Hardy Gladiolus
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Type: Perennial in zones 6-10. Annual in other zones.
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Color: Orchid like flowers in a rainbow of colors.
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Spread/Width: Plant 12 bulbs per square foot
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Bloom Time: Mid summer until frost
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Soil Preferences: Will grow in almost any soil type but prefers a sandy loam soil that is well drained.
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