Gladiolus italicus aka Italian Gladiolus
Taxonomy
Gladiolus italicus, also known as Italian gladiolus, field gladiolus, and common sword-lily, is a cormous perennial flower native to much of Eurasia and North Africa. It is well-known on other continents where it often grows as a common weed, particularly in cultivated fields and waste places. This upright plant can reach a maximum height of one meter and has a fan of erect, dark green leaves. In early summer, it produces a loose spike of up to twenty magenta-colored flowers, each measuring 4-5cm in length, with paler lower petals. The flower itself is bright pink to magenta, several centimeters long, and has stamens and style protruding from the throat. After flowering, a capsule containing many seeds, about a centimeter long, is formed. It is worth noting that while this plant has some beneficial uses, it may also be potentially poisonous. If you wish to remove Gladiolus italicus from your surroundings, appropriate measures should be taken.
Common names
Italian Gladiolus, Field Gladiolus, Common Sword LilyHow to care for Italian Gladiolus
Difficulty
With a bit of knowledge and dedication, you can successfully care for Italian Gladiolus, making it a rewarding choice for those seeking a moderate challenge.
Water
Italian Gladiolus should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil
Italian Gladiolus loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
Lighting
To ensure optimal growth, the Italian Gladiolus prefers bright indirect light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.
Toxicity
No verified data on the toxicity of this plant exists within Ploi's records. Should you, someone in your family, or your pet ingest plant material with an unknown toxicity level, it is recommended to seek medical advice.
Fertilizer
Once the Italian Gladiolus has doubled in size or after a year has passed, it should be moved to a new pot. By replacing the soil with fresh potting soil containing all the vital nutrients, your plant will receive all the sustenance it needs, negating the requirement for fertilizer. It's important to remember that plants get their energy from the sun, not fertilizer.
More info:
Wikipedia
More Species in Gladiolus Genus
Gladiolus tenuis Gladiolus Tenuis

Gladiolus palustris Marsh Gladiolus

Gladiolus tristis Avon Flower
Gladiolus debilis Painted Lady

Gladiolus illyricus Wild Gladiolus

Gladiolus undulatus Large Painted Lady
