GLADIOLUS - Flower Fest

Gladiolus are known by a number of names: Gladiolus, gladiola, "glads", and even "Sword Lilly". Why Sword Lily, you might ask? It's because of their long, sword-like leaves. But, Glads are not members of the lily family. Whatever you like to call them, they are one of the more popular flowers grown in the home garden.
Gladiolus are native to the mountains of South America. They are widely grown in the U.S., Europe and Asian countries too. Gladiolus are easy to grow, and make for a beautiful flower in the garden and in floral arrangements, hence their popularity.
Blossoms come in a wide range of colors and bicolors. The blossoms will open from the bottom first.
With just a little attention, glads will burst into a bloom of tall spikes in August (here in U.S.) But in back home India,(Bangalore) in my parents' garden, we have them almost throughout the the year.Galds are my Appa's favorite!He is just mad about them !

For more on flowers go to "Flower Fest - The A - Z of Flowers"

Flower Fest