The ultimate cutting gladioli collection
gladiolus or sword lily
- 1 × collection | 75 corms
- £31.86 £0.42 each
- Delivered during January
- 2 + 1 FREE collections | 225 corms
- £95.58 £0.42 each
- Delivered during January
Delivery options
- Bulbs (only) £4.99
- Position: full sun
- Soil: moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil
- Rate of growth: average
- Flowering period: July to September
- Hardiness: half hardy (will need winter protection)
This eye-catching collection of gladiolus corms produces tall, majestic flower spikes in vibrant shades of purple, plum and red that bloom from mid to late summer, providing structural height and vivid colour for borders, arrangements, and cutting gardens.
In each collection you will receive 75 corms (15 of each) of the following cultivars:
- 15 x Gladiolus 'Plum Tart': Perfect for adding colour to the late summer border, the majestic spires of this stunning perennial open from the base to reveal large, bright magenta-coloured flowers, which have a soft velvety texture. Plant them in drifts through the herbaceous or cottage border, interspersing them with rich purple or soft pink-coloured flowers. They also look spectacular when planted near silver foliage. Sought after by florists, the flower spikes make spectacular additions to a large vase. Grows to 1.2m.
- 15 x Gladiolus 'Purple Mate': Intense purple flowers appear on the upright flower spikes from late summer. These can be used to add structural interest and colour to the border, or cut to create spectacular arrangements in a vase. Grows to 1.2m.
- 15 x Gladiolus 'Bonfire': A striking cultivated variety known for its vivid, fiery colour blend. Tall, elegant flower spikes rise above sword-shaped, mid-green foliage, producing densely packed florets in shades of pillar-box red with hints of bright orange giving a glowing, flame-like effect—hence the name 'Bonfire'. Blooms appear from midsummer into late summer making it excellent for adding bold vertical interest and late-season drama to borders or cutting gardens. Grows to 1.2m.
- 15 x Gladiolus 'Black Star': A dramatic summer-flowering gladiolus with tall, upright spikes of richly coloured flowers in deep wine-red to near-black tones, creating a bold and mysterious focal point in any border or cut flower display. Its slender sword-like green foliage anchors the striking flower spikes bringing vertical impact to beds, containers, or bouquets. Grows to 1.2m.
- 15 x Gladiolus 'Next Level': Tall, elegant spikes of blooms that shift in colour from deep purple to soft lilac. This striking cultivated variety brings height, vibrant colour, and a bold vertical presence to borders, containers, and cutting beds. Easy to grow in full sun with well-drained soil, it’s ideal for gardeners seeking a standout performer with long-lasting flowers that make a memorable impact. Grows to 1m.
Plant corms 10-15cm (4-6in) deep and 25cm (10in) apart on a bed of sharp sand to aid drainage. In frost-prone areas, lift them when the leaves turn yellow-brown and store the corms in a dry, frost-free place over winter.
Gladioli grow best in full sun and well-drained soil, with protection from strong winds. Once planted, water regularly during dry spells and support taller plants with canes if needed. Feed every couple of weeks with a high potash fertiliser as the flower spikes develop. Deadhead spent blooms to encourage more flowers further down the stem.
After flowering, allow the foliage to die back naturally so the corms can store energy for the next season. In milder areas, corms can be left in the ground with a dry mulch for winter; otherwise, lift and store them in a frost-free place.
Gladioli grow best in full sun and well-drained soil, with protection from strong winds. Once planted, water regularly during dry spells and support taller plants with canes if needed. Feed every couple of weeks with a high potash fertiliser as the flower spikes develop. Deadhead spent blooms to encourage more flowers further down the stem.
After flowering, allow the foliage to die back naturally so the corms can store energy for the next season. In milder areas, corms can be left in the ground with a dry mulch for winter; otherwise, lift and store them in a frost-free place.
- Humans/Pets: Ornamental bulbs - not to be eaten