10 Different Types Of Gladiolus Flowers

The gladiolus, often called the 'sword lily', is a flower known for its tall, impressive spikes of vibrant blooms. But its world is far more diverse than many realise, spanning a spectacular range of sizes, shapes, and colours perfect for gardens and elegant bouquets. 

This guide will introduce you to the main classifications and popular varieties, helping you recognise and appreciate the vast diversity of this beloved and symbolic flower.

Understanding Gladiolus: More Than Just a Single Flower

Before exploring the different types, it is helpful to understand the basics of this beautiful flower. The gladiolus belongs to the Iris family, Iridaceae, and originates primarily from South Africa. Its common name, 'sword lily', is a nod to its long, sword-shaped leaves. The name 'gladiolus' itself comes from the Latin word 'gladius', which means sword.

Many people refer to gladiolus 'bulbs', but they technically grow from a different type of structure called a 'corm'. A corm is a swollen, underground plant stem that stores food for the plant through its dormant period, allowing it to burst forth with life when the growing season begins.

Major Gladiolus Hybrid Groups

Most of the gladioli you find in gardens and florist shops today are hybrids, carefully bred over generations to create spectacular blooms. These hybrids are typically classified into several major groups based on their size and flower shape.

1. Grandiflora Hybrids

When you picture a gladiolus, you are most likely thinking of a Grandiflora hybrid. This is the most common and widely recognised group, celebrated for its dramatic height and large, showy flowers. These plants can reach impressive heights of four to five feet, creating a striking flower accent in any garden.

The florets on a Grandiflora are substantial, often measuring five to six inches across, with ruffled or frilled petals that add to their luxurious appearance. A single stem can produce up to 20 blooms, which open sequentially from the bottom up. 

Because of their significant height and the weight of their numerous flowers, Grandiflora gladioli almost always require staking to prevent the stems from bending or breaking in the wind and rain. They are the quintessential choice for large, stunning floral arrangements and are a favourite among florists for creating pieces with height and presence.

2. Dwarf Grandiflora Hybrids

For those who love the classic shape of the Grandiflora but lack the space for such tall plants, the Dwarf Grandiflora hybrids are a perfect solution. These cultivars, which include popular series like the 'Glamini' gladiolus, offer all the beauty of their larger cousins in a more manageable size.

Typically growing to about two feet tall, these compact plants are ideal for containers on a balcony, smaller garden beds, or lining the front of a floral border. The flowers are smaller but retain the beautiful form and vibrant colours of the standard Grandifloras. A significant advantage is that their sturdy, shorter stems mean they generally do not need staking, making them a much lower-maintenance option for busy gardeners.

3. Nanus Hybrids: The Hardy and Dainty Choice

The Nanus hybrids offer a completely different aesthetic. These are often called 'Butterfly Gladiolus' because their delicate flowers can feature intricate markings and colourful blotches on the petals that resemble the patterns on a butterfly’s wings. These plants are much smaller, usually growing between 18 to 24 inches tall.

Their stems produce fewer and more delicate flowers compared to the Grandifloras, giving them a lighter, more natural feel. Nanus gladioli are also known for their hardiness and resilience, making them a reliable choice for gardeners. They are perfectly suited for rock gardens, pots, and creating gentle, less formal bouquets that evoke the charm of a wildflower meadow.

4. Primulinus Hybrids: The Hooded Butterfly Gladiolus

The Primulinus hybrids share some characteristics with the Nanus group but have a unique feature that sets them apart: a hooded top petal that curves over the flower's centre. This gives each floret a distinct and elegant silhouette.

The flowers on Primulinus hybrids are often more widely spaced along the stem, contributing to a more delicate and airy appearance. They are frequently found in soft, romantic pastel shades, such as light pink, soft yellow, and peach. This refined look makes them a wonderful choice for romantic, garden-style floral designs and bouquets where a less structured and more whimsical feel is desired.

Exploring Popular Gladiolus Varieties by Colour and Form

With thousands of cultivars available, the choice of gladiolus is nearly endless. Exploring them by colour and form can help you find the perfect variety for your garden or next floral arrangement.

5. White Gladiolus Varieties

White gladioli are timelessly elegant and often symbolise purity, innocence, and remembrance. Their clean, bright appearance makes them a versatile choice for any occasion, from weddings to solemn events. They also serve as a beautiful contrast flower, making the colours of other blooms in a mixed bouquet appear more vibrant.

A popular white variety is 'White Prosperity', a magnificent Grandiflora that produces tall, strong stems lined with large, pure white, and gently frilled blooms. For something smaller and more intricate, the Nanus hybrid 'Prins Claus' is a charming choice. Its creamy white petals are delicately marked with splashes of bright pink or red, giving it a unique and eye-catching look.

6. Red and Pink Gladiolus

Red and pink gladioli speak a language of love, passion, admiration, and femininity–which makes them amazing mother’s day flower gifts. They bring a powerful burst of colour to any setting. A classic red Grandiflora like 'Oscar' is perfect for making a bold, dramatic statement with its rich, velvety, deep red blooms.

In the pink family, 'Fidelo' is a stunning variety with large, ruffled flowers in a deep, vibrant fuchsia pink. Its tall stems and velvety petals make it an excellent cutting flower. For a slightly softer but equally cheerful look, 'Candyman' is a reliable choice, known for its beautiful blooms in a clear, deep pink that brightens up any space.

7. Yellow and Orange Gladiolus

Nothing says happiness and friendship quite like a sunny yellow flower. Yellow and orange gladioli are perfect for creating cheerful arrangements that feel warm and welcoming. 'Jester' is a striking bicolour Grandiflora that lives up to its playful name, featuring bright yellow petals with a contrasting deep red or orange centre that commands attention. Another delightful choice is 'Fun Time', which has ruffled yellow flowers with distinct red edges, creating a joyful and celebratory look. These vibrant varieties are perfect for summer parties or as a thoughtful gift to a dear friend.

8. Purple, Green, and Bicolour Varieties

For those looking for something a bit different, gladioli offer a range of unique and captivating colours. Purple varieties symbolise grace, royalty, and mystery. 'Black Star' is a truly dramatic cultivar, with deep, velvety purple-red blooms that appear almost black in certain light, adding a touch of sophisticated drama. 'Costa' is another beautiful choice, featuring ruffled flowers in a lovely shade of blue-purple.

Green flowers are a novelty that adds a fresh, modern touch to arrangements. Varieties like 'Green Star' or 'Green Time' have unusual lime-green blooms that pair wonderfully with white flowers or other cool tones. Many gladiolus varieties are also bicoloured, featuring two distinct colours on each petal. These add wonderful depth and can help tie together different colours in a mixed bouquet.

Speciality Gladiolus Types

Beyond the main hybrid groups, some gladioli are categorised by their unique petal shapes, which add extra texture and flair.

9. Fringed and Ruffled Gladiolus

Many modern gladiolus hybrids have been bred to have heavily ruffled or fringed petal edges. This characteristic gives the flowers an incredible amount of texture and a sense of luxury and elegance. The frilly edges catch the light beautifully, making the blooms appear softer and more substantial. These varieties are highly sought after by floral designers for creating upscale arrangements, particularly for weddings and special events, where every detail counts.

10. Parrot Gladiolus

Parrot gladioli are true works of art. These unique varieties are distinguished by their frilly, twisted, and sometimes lacquered petals, often in exotic and dramatic colour combinations. Their appearance is wilder and more artistic than that of classic gladioli, resembling the vibrant plumage of a tropical bird. Parrot gladioli are perfect for those who want to create bold, avant-garde arrangements that are sure to be conversation starters.

Choosing and Caring for Your Gladiolus Flowers

Whether you are growing them at home or arranging them in a vase, a few simple tips will help you get the most out of your gladioli.

Selecting the Right Gladiolus for Your Needs

For the garden in Singapore’s tropical climate, it is crucial to choose a spot that receives plenty of sun and has well-drained soil to prevent the corms from rotting. Grandiflora varieties are excellent for planting at the back of a border to provide height, while the more compact Dwarf or Nanus varieties are perfect for growing in pots on patios and balconies.

When choosing gladioli as cut flowers, look for stems where only the bottom one or two flowers have opened. This ensures that the rest of the buds will open sequentially in the vase, giving you a much longer-lasting display. The tall, elegant stems of Grandiflora hybrids make them a classic choice for cutting.

Basic Care Tips for Cut Gladiolus

To keep your cut gladioli looking fresh and beautiful for as long as possible, follow these simple steps.

• As soon as you get them home, use a sharp knife or shears to trim about an inch off the bottom of the stems at a 45-degree angle.
• Place the stems immediately into a tall, sturdy, and clean vase filled with fresh water and a packet of flower food.
• Remove any leaves that will sit below the waterline in the vase. Submerged leaves will rot and promote bacterial growth, which shortens the life of your flowers.
• Change the water in the vase every two days to keep it clean and fresh.
• Keep your arrangement away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and ripening fruit, as these can cause the flowers to wilt prematurely.
• As the bottom flowers on the spike begin to fade, you can gently pinch them off to keep the rest of the stem looking tidy and encourage the upper buds to open.

Conclusion On The Types of Gladiolus Flowers

From the towering, dramatic spikes of the Grandiflora hybrids to the delicate, butterfly-like blooms of the Nanus varieties, the gladiolus is a flower of incredible diversity. Its vast spectrum of colours, forms, and sizes ensures that there is a perfect gladiolus for every garden, occasion, and personal taste. 

Whether standing tall on a sunny border or gracing a vase in your home, these elegant 'sword lilies' bring a unique sense of strength, beauty, and character. We hope this guide inspires you to explore their wonderful world further.

At Singapore Florist, we are fluent in the language of flowers, understanding that the most heartfelt sentiments are best expressed without a single word. Our expert florists are passionate storytellers, using each bloom's unique voice to craft arrangements that speak directly from your heart.

Are you ready to tell your story and create a truly memorable moment? For a personalized creation that perfectly captures your feelings, we invite you to explore our collections or contact us to begin designing your unique message.

Frequently Asked Questions About Gladiolus Flower Types

What Are the Most Popular Gladiolus?

The most popular gladioli are typically the Grandiflora hybrids, which are prized for their tall stems, large flowers, and classic appearance. Specific cultivars like the pure 'White Prosperity' and the rich 'Oscar' red are favourites among florists and gardeners. For smaller spaces and pots, Nanus hybrids like the charmingly patterned 'Prins Claus' are also very popular.

How Many Types of Gladiolus Are There?

There are over 250 different species of wild gladiolus. However, through extensive hybridisation, growers have developed thousands of distinct cultivated varieties, or cultivars. This means there is a seemingly endless selection of gladioli available, offering nearly every colour, size, and form imaginable.

What Is the Prettiest Gladiolus?

Beauty is entirely subjective, and the "prettiest" gladiolus depends on personal preference. Some people are drawn to the dramatic height and large, ruffled blooms of the Grandiflora varieties, seeing beauty in their impressive scale. Others might find the delicate, intricate markings of the Nanus or the airy, hooded flowers of the Primulinus hybrids to be prettier. The best way to find your favourite is to explore different types and colours.

What Is the Difference Between Gladiolus and Gladiola?

'Gladiolus' is the scientifically correct singular name for the flower, derived from Latin. 'Gladiola' is a commonly used and widely accepted informal name for the flower. The correct plural form is 'gladioli', though 'gladioluses' is also sometimes used informally.

What Is the Most Fragrant Gladiolus?

Most modern gladiolus hybrids have been bred for their impressive size, vibrant colour, and long vase life, and as a result, they typically have little to no fragrance. However, some specific species are known for their lovely scent, particularly in the evening. These include Gladiolus tristis and Gladiolus callianthus (also known as the Peacock Orchid), which are valued for their sweet fragrance.

Do Gladiolus Come Back Every Year?

Gladioli grow from corms and are considered tender perennials. In their native warm climates or in tropical and subtropical regions like Singapore (roughly USDA Zones 8 and above), they can often be left in the ground and will grow back each year. In colder climates, the corms must be dug up in the autumn after the foliage has died back, stored in a cool, dry place over winter, and then replanted in the spring.