Green Woodpecker Gladiolus Gladiolus 'Green Woodpecker' (M)
ABOUT
Gladiolus 'Green Woodpecker' is a striking and elegant flowering plant, characterized by its tall and upright stems. Its most striking feature is the series of flowers that bloom along these stems in a stunning display. The flowers of 'Green Woodpecker' are particularly noteworthy for their unique coloring: a blend of creamy white petals that are throat brushes with a vivid green hue, giving the impression of delicate brushstrokes applied by an artist. The inflorescence, or flower spike, is a harmonious arrangement of multiple blooms that open in succession, starting from the bottom and progressing upwards. The blooms are funnel-shaped with ruffled edges, adding to their aesthetic charm. Each individual flower consists of six lobes, which are the distinct sections of the petals, and are neatly arranged to create a balanced visual effect. Contrasting markings or blotches are common in Gladiolus varieties, and 'Green Woodpecker' may feature subtle touches of other shades accenting its white and green primary colors, although these markings are more understated than in other Gladiolus varieties. The foliage of 'Green Woodpecker' consists of long, narrow leaves that are typically a deep green in color, forming a fitting backdrop to the vivid display of its flowers. These leaves emerge from corms, which are the storage organs of the plant buried in the soil. The leaves may have a sword-like shape and are usually arranged in a fan-like pattern. Their aesthetic complements the tall spires of flowers, adding to the plant's overall vertical line and poise. The combined effect of the leaves and flowers on the stems creates a visually striking display that can add height and color to any garden. It's also worth noting that Gladiolus 'Green Woodpecker' can bring a captivating and elegant look to a variety of floral arrangements when used as a cut flower, thanks to its long-lasting blooms. Overall, Gladiolus 'Green Woodpecker' offers both a refreshing color palette and a statuesque form that can make it a standout addition to any ornamental garden or floral design.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Iridaceae
Synonyms
Sword Lily, Gladiola
Common names
Gladiolus 'Green Woodpecker'
ToxicityTo humans
Gladiolus, including the 'Green Woodpecker' variety, are not typically considered highly toxic to humans. However, they do contain substances that can cause mild irritation to the skin, mouth, throat, and gastrointestinal tract if ingested. Symptoms of ingestion might include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and throat irritation. It is advisable to avoid consuming any part of the gladiolus plant, as it is not edible and can lead to gastrointestinal discomfort.
To pets
Gladiolus plants, including the 'Green Woodpecker' cultivar, are toxic to pets, especially cats and dogs, if ingested. The plant contains substances that can cause vomiting, drooling, lethargy, diarrhea, and potentially more serious symptoms such as a drop in blood pressure, abdominal pain, tremors, or an irregular heartbeat in severe cases. Prompt veterinary attention is advised if a pet consumes any part of a gladiolus plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Green
Height
2-5 feet (60-150 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
8
Native area
South Africa
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal - Gladiolus 'Green Woodpecker' adds vibrant color and visual interest to gardens with its striking green and white blossoms.
- Pollinator Attraction - This plant attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, supporting local ecosystems.
- Easy to Grow - This gladiolus variety is relatively easy to grow and can thrive in a range of soil conditions with proper care.
- Cut Flowers - The flowers of Gladiolus 'Green Woodpecker' make excellent cut flowers for arrangements due to their longevity and unique color.
- Vertical Interest - The tall spikes of this gladiolus add height and structure to garden beds or borders.
- Seasonal Variety - Planting Gladiolus 'Green Woodpecker' contributes to seasonal variety in the garden, with blooms typically appearing in summer.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Photography Subject: Gladiolus 'Green Woodpecker' can be a captivating subject for macro photography due to its striking green patterns and floral architecture.
- Art Inspiration: Artists may use the unique color and form of the Green Woodpecker Gladiolus as inspiration for paintings, drawings, and textile designs.
- Educational Tool: Botany educators can use this plant to teach about flower anatomy and hybridization processes in gladiolus cultivars.
- Floral Crafting: The tall and sturdy stems of Green Woodpecker Gladiolus make them suitable for crafting dried flower arrangements.
- Color Dye: The pigments in the petals could potentially be used to create natural dyes for fabrics or paper coloring.
- Garden Themes: This gladiolus can be used to create a monochromatic or a 'cool-toned' garden theme with its distinctive green flowers.
- Culinary Garnish: Although not commonly consumed, the petals can be used as an ornamental garnish for culinary presentations after ensuring they are free from pesticides.
- Perfumery: The subtle scent of the Green Woodpecker Gladiolus may be used as inspiration for creating floral fragrances.
- Event Decor: The flowers offer a unique decor element for events seeking a natural, yet sophisticated ambiance, especially for spring-themed occasions.
- Landscaping: The plant can be used as part of a landscaping design to attract pollinators like bees and butterflies to a garden.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe gladiolus is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe gladiolus is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Strength of Character: Gladiolus, derived from the Latin word "gladius" meaning sword, symbolizes strength, integrity, and the ability to overcome challenges. The 'Green Woodpecker' variety shares the same symbolism due to its tall, strong stems that can weather the elements.
- Remembrance: The Gladiolus flower is often used in occasions that signify remembrance. Its imposing presence and beauty make it ideal for memorials or tokens of recollection.
- Infatuation: Giving Gladiolus can signify infatuation or a strong admiration toward someone. The striking nature of the long-stemmed flower is thought to pierce the heart like cupid's arrows.
- Honor and Faithfulness: The Gladiolus is also a symbol of honor and faithfulness. Its upright growth is seen as a gesture of moral rectitude and loyalty.
WaterSword lilies should be watered moderately once the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, typically about once a week, but this can vary with climate conditions. During active growth and blooming, they may require more frequent watering, possibly twice a week. Ensure the plant receives about 1-2 inches of water each week, depending on weather conditions, with less water needed during rainy periods. It is important to avoid over-watering to prevent bulb rot. Water the plants early in the day, so the foliage has time to dry to minimize disease risks.
LightSword lilies thrive in full sunlight, needing at least 6-8 hours of direct sun per day for optimum growth and flowering. Choose a spot in the garden that receives unobstructed sunlight for most of the day. They can tolerate partial shade, but too much shade will result in weaker plants with fewer blooms.
TemperatureSword lilies prefer warm conditions and are best suited to temperatures between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. They can typically survive minimum temperatures down to 35 degrees Fahrenheit but should be protected from frost. Ideal temperature conditions for these plants are warm days with cooler nights to ensure vigorous growth and proper flowering.
PruningPruning sword lilies is necessary to remove spent flowers and promote the growth of additional blooms. Cut back the flower stalks once all the flowers have faded but leave the foliage in place to allow photosynthesis to bolster the bulbs for the next season. The best time for pruning is in late summer or early fall, after flowering is complete.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Gladiolus 'Green Woodpecker', more commonly known as the Sword Lily, thrives in a well-draining soil mix with a pH of 6.0 to 6.5. A mix of loamy soil, sand, and peat can create the ideal conditions for growth. Adding compost or well-rotted manure will enrich the mix with nutrients beneficial for the Sword Lily.
RepottingSword Lilies, or the Gladiolus 'Green Woodpecker', do not require regular repotting as they grow from corms. The corms should be lifted and stored over winter in colder climates, and then replanted in the spring. Only repot with fresh soil every spring when planting the corms outdoors.
Humidity & MistingFor Gladiolus 'Green Woodpecker', also known as Sword Lily, moderate humidity levels are suitable. They can generally tolerate the humidity levels found in most outdoor environments without the need for special adjustments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Sword Lily in well-lit area avoiding direct scorching light.
Outdoor
Plant Sword Lily corms in full sun, 4 inches deep, after frost.
Hardiness zone
7-11 USDA
Life cycleThe Gladiolus 'Green Woodpecker' begins its life as a corm, a bulb-like storage organ, which is usually planted in the spring. Upon planting, the corm sends shoots upward and roots downward into the soil. Through the growing season, it develops tall, sword-shaped leaves and a sturdy flower spike; the Green Woodpecker variety is notable for its distinctive greenish-yellow flowers with red markings. After flowering in late summer, the plant enters a period of senescence where the leaves yellow and die back as the corm goes dormant. In colder climates, the corm is often lifted from the soil and stored during the winter to protect it from freezing. The following spring, the cycle begins anew when the corm is replanted, or it may produce small offshoots called cormlets that can be separated and grown into new plants.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
Gladiolus 'Green Woodpecker', commonly known as the gladiolus, is most commonly propagated through corms. The best time to propagate this plant using corms is in the spring after the threat of frost has passed and the soil has warmed up adequately. To propagate, select healthy corms and plant them about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 cm) deep in well-draining soil, spacing them around 6 inches (15 cm) apart. Ensure they are planted with the pointy end facing up. Water the corms thoroughly after planting to encourage root development. With ideal growing conditions, the corms will develop roots and shoots, eventually leading to a healthy gladiolus plant that will bloom in the summer.
