Sword lily Gladiolus 'Peter Pears' (L)
ABOUT
Gladiolus 'Peter Pears' is a striking perennial prized for its showy blooms. This plant produces tall flower spikes adorned with large, flared blossoms arrayed in a double row along one side of the stem. The flowers of 'Peter Pears' boast a vibrant, fiery hue that can be described as a blend of red and orange, creating a warm, sunset-like appearance. The petals may exhibit a ruffled or frilly edge, contributing additional texture and interest to the flower display. The leaves of this Gladiolus are sword-shaped, tapering to a point, with a fresh green color that contrasts beautifully with the vivid blossoms. The foliage emerges in a fan-like array from the base of the plant, gracefully arching outwards and providing an elegant backdrop to the magnificent flowering spikes. Overall, the Gladiolus 'Peter Pears' has a stately and eye-catching presence in the garden, drawing attention with its brilliant floral coloration and striking, vertical lines formed by the flower stalks and leaves. It brings a bold splash of color to any setting and is often used in cut flower arrangements due to its exceptional beauty and long-lasting blossoms.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Iridaceae
Synonyms
Sword Lily, Gladioli
Common names
Gladiolus 'Peter Pears'
ToxicityTo humans
Gladiolus, including the variety 'Peter Pears', are not typically considered highly toxic to humans. However, they can cause mild symptoms if ingested. The corms, which are often mistaken for onions, contain substances that can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. If ingested, the corms can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. It is generally recommended to avoid eating any part of the gladiolus plant due to these potential gastrointestinal irritants.
To pets
Gladiolus plants are considered to be toxic to dogs, cats, and other household pets. If a pet ingests any part of the gladiolus plant, especially the corms, they might experience symptoms such as drooling, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. In some cases, the consumption of larger amounts could potentially lead to more severe issues such as lethargy and an irregular heartbeat. It is important to prevent pets from accessing gladiolus plants and to seek veterinary attention if you suspect your pet has ingested any part of the plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Mixed
Height
3-4 feet (91-122 cm)
Spread
6-12 inches (15-30 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
7
Native area
South Africa
Benefits
General Benefits- Visual Appeal: The Gladiolus boasts striking flowers that add color and height to gardens.
- Easy Propagation: They can be easily propagated through their corms, allowing gardeners to expand their display or share with others.
- Cut Flowers: They are a popular choice for cut flowers, lasting well in vases and adding elegance to floral arrangements.
- Seasonal Interest: Gladiolus plants bloom in mid to late summer, providing interest when many other plants have finished flowering.
- Attracts Pollinators: They attract bees and butterflies, which are beneficial for pollination of gardens and the environment as a whole.
- Versatility: Suitable for borders, flower beds, and as a background plant, offering versatility in landscape design.
- Thematic Gardens: With their range of colors and tall structure, they are excellent for thematic gardens, such as cottage gardens or bold color schemes.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Gladiolus flowers can be used in eco-printing, a method where the pigments from the flowers are transferred onto fabric or paper to create natural patterns and designs.
- The stems of gladioli can be woven into baskets or intricate decorative pieces when dried and treated for flexibility.
- Petals of Gladiolus can be incorporated into potpourri mixes for their shape and color, adding visual appeal to the fragrant blend.
- Dried Gladiolus flowers can be used in crafting homemade paper to embed floral textures and aesthetics into the paper.
- Gladiolus petals can be used in bath bombs and salts as they add a touch of luxury and can lightly color the water with their natural hues.
- Gladiolus bulbs, when carved, can be used in printmaking as a stamp for painting and art activities to create floral-themed prints and designs.
- Tall Gladiolus spikes can serve as natural supports in the garden for other plants that may need a bit of help growing upright.
- The strong vertical line of the Gladiolus flower spikes can be used in landscape design to create visual interest and draw the eye upwards in garden arrangements.
- Edible varieties of Gladiolus can be used for culinary decoration, with their petals adding a splash of color to salads and desserts.
- Gladiolus flowers can be used as bookmarks when pressed and dried, preserving their beauty while serving a practical purpose.
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: The name "gladiolus" is derived from the Latin word "gladius," meaning sword, which symbolizes strength, moral integrity, and persistence.
- Remembrance: Gladiolus is often considered a flower that represents remembrance, making it a common choice for memorial services or to express the sentiment of remembering someone fondly.
- Infatuation: Giving someone a gladiolus can signify being struck by love at first sight, representing a strong infatuation or admiration for the recipient.
- Generosity: The impressive, tall stalks of gladiolus blooms are seen as a symbol of generosity, due to their large and giving nature.
- Integrity: Gladiolus also represents sincerity and integrity, embodying honesty and strong ethical values.
WaterFor the sword lily, it's crucial to provide consistent moisture during the growing season. Water these plants deeply once a week with about a half gallon per plant, increasing frequency to twice a week during hot, dry spells. Ensure the soil is well-draining to avoid waterlogging, which can cause bulb rot. After flowering, gradually reduce watering as the leaves begin to yellow and die back in preparation for dormancy.
LightSword lilies prefer full sun to achieve optimal growth and bloom quality. They should be placed in a spot where they receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Avoid areas with too much shade, as this can lead to weak stems and fewer flowers.
TemperatureSword lilies thrive in temperatures between 60°F and 80°F. They can survive minimum temperatures down to 35°F, but should not be exposed to frost which can damage or kill the plant. Ensure they are planted in an area that can maintain these temperature ranges, particularly during their active growing period.
PruningPrune sword lilies by deadheading spent flowers to encourage additional blooms and prevent the plant from directing energy towards seed production. The best time to prune is when individual florets on the spike start to fade. Cut the flower stems close to the base after all blorets have died back, but leave the foliage in place until it turns brown and can be easily removed.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Sword Lily (Gladiolus 'Peter Pears') should be well-draining with a mix of loam, sand, and peat to mimic fertile garden soil. It should be slightly acidic to neutral in pH, ranging from 6.0 to 7.0.
RepottingSword Lilies generally do not need regular repotting as they grow from corms that are planted annually in the spring and dug up and stored in the fall after the foliage has died back.
Humidity & MistingSword Lily thrives in average outdoor humidity levels, without the need for special humidity considerations as they are tolerant of the humidity levels found in most temperate climates.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure full sun, well-draining soil, regular watering.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, in fertile, well-draining soil, space corms properly.
Hardiness zone
7-10 USDA
Life cycleThe life cycle of Gladiolus 'Peter Pears', commonly known as sword lily, begins with the planting of corms in well-drained soil during springtime, after the threat of frost has passed. The corms germinate and sprout sword-like foliage, followed by the development of tall flower spikes with trumpet-shaped flowers that bloom in succession from the bottom up, offering a spectacular display in the summer months. After flowering, photosynthesis in the leaves helps to replenish and enlarge the corms for the next season. In the fall, the foliage dies back, and the corms enter a dormant period over winter. Throughout this period, the corms can be left in the ground in milder climates or, in colder regions, dug up, dried, and stored to prevent freezing. The cycle recommences the following spring when the corms are replanted, often producing new cormlets that can be harvested and used to propagate the plant.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
Gladiolus 'Peter Pears' is typically propagated through division of corms, a method that is not only the most popular but also straightforward. The best time to propagate Gladiolus 'Peter Pears' by dividing corms is in the early spring just as the soil becomes workable. The mature corms are lifted from the soil and the new cormels that have formed around the base are gently separated. To prevent disease, it is recommended to treat the corms with a fungicide before planting. The corms should then be planted at a depth of about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) in well-draining soil, with the pointy end facing up, and spaced about 6 inches (15 centimeters) apart to give the new plants room to grow. Properly divided and planted corms will develop into new Gladiolus 'Peter Pears' plants, blooming in mid to late summer depending on the climate and growing conditions.
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