Gladiolus italicus aka Italian Gladiolus

Gladiolus italicus belongs to the iris family, Iridaceae. Its common names include Italian gladiolus and common sword-lily. Field gladiolus and common corn flag are other names. Its native range spans Macaronesia, the Mediterranean, and Central Asia. Kew places it in the subtropical climate zone. It is not native to Britain or Ireland. The name Gladiolus segetum is a synonym.

This upright perennial grows from a corm beneath the soil. Garden plants reach about 1.6–3.3 feet [0.5–1 metre] tall. Their spread ranges from 0.3–1.6 feet [0.1–0.5 metres]. Plants take two to five years to reach full size. Dark green leaves stand upright in a fan. Each leaf has a long, sword-like shape. The plant sheds its leaves rather than keeping them year-round.

Loose flower spikes rise above the leaves in early summer. A spike can carry as many as twenty flowers. Each bloom measures about 0.13–0.16 feet [0.04–0.05 metres] long. The flowers are magenta, with lighter shades on their lower petals. RHS recommends this species for flower beds and borders. It also suits cottage gardens and less formal planting schemes. The blooms can serve as cut flowers.

Grow it in full sun with shelter from harsh exposure. A south-facing or west-facing site suits its needs. Choose fertile soil that drains well but can hold some moisture. Chalk, loam, and sand are suitable soil types. It accepts acid, neutral, and alkaline conditions. Set corms 0.33–0.52 feet [0.10–0.16 metres] deep over sharp sand. RHS rates its UK hardiness as H3, for mild or coastal areas. Lift corms once the leaves die back. Remove old corms and keep new ones dry and frost-free until spring. A thick, dry winter mulch may suffice in milder places.

Separate small cormlets during dormancy to raise more plants. This species needs no pruning. Thrips, aphids, and slugs may attack it. Several rots can affect the corms, including Fusarium diseases. Other risks include Botrytis grey mould, scab, and neck rot. Fungal leaf spots and virus diseases can also occur. Do not eat the corms; they can harm people and pets. Wear gloves and other protective gear when handling plants.