Gladiolus Gladiolus 'Plum Tart' (L)
ABOUT
The Gladiolus 'Plum Tart' is a striking plant known for its remarkable and attractive blooming spikes. This variety features showy flowers that bloom along tall stalks, displaying a rich palette of deep purple to plum hues, hence its name 'Plum Tart'. The individual flowers are typically funnel-shaped and fan out elegantly from the central stem. Each bloom has six petals; the three lower petals often display a lighter shade or have a contrasting throat, which can add depth and interest to their appearance. The foliage of this cultivar consists of long, sword-shaped leaves that emerge in a glaucous green color, providing a beautiful vertical element and lush backdrop to the vibrant blooms. The contrast between the deep floral tones and the greenery sets up a dramatic and showy display that's perfect for adding a splash of color to gardens or for cutting and arranging in vases.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Iridaceae
Synonyms
Sword Lily, Gladiola
Common names
Gladiolus 'Plum Tart'
ToxicityTo humans
Gladiolus 'Plum Tart' is part of the Gladiolus genus, commonly known as Gladiolus. Generally, Gladiolus plants are not considered highly toxic to humans, but they can cause allergic reactions or skin irritation in some individuals. Ingesting parts of the plant, specifically the bulb, can lead to mild gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. While serious poisoning is uncommon, if any part of the plant is ingested, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional, especially if symptoms persist or are severe.
To pets
Gladiolus 'Plum Tart' is part of the Gladiolus genus, which is more commonly referred to simply as Gladiolus. Gladiolus plants are toxic to pets, including both cats and dogs. If a pet ingests part of a Gladiolus plant, particularly the bulbs, they could experience symptoms such as drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and abdominal pain. In severe cases, ingesting Gladiolus can lead to an upset in the pet's electrolyte balance, which can be dangerous. If you suspect your pet has ingested any part of a Gladiolus plant, it is important to seek veterinary care promptly.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Burgundy
Height
2-3 feet (60-90 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
7-10
Native area
South Africa
Benefits
General Benefits- Enhances Garden Aesthetics: The Gladiolus 'Plum Tart' adds a dramatic splash of color to any garden with its vibrant plum-purple flowers that stand tall and elegant.
- Attracts Pollinators: Its brightly colored blooms attract bees, butterflies and other beneficial pollinators, supporting local ecosystems.
- Cut Flower Use: The Gladiolus 'Plum Tart' is excellent for use in cut flower arrangements, providing long-lasting floral displays indoors.
- Seasonal Interest: This plant blooms during the summer months, offering visual interest during a time when many other plants may not be in flower.
- Easy Propagation: They can be easily propagated through corm division, allowing gardeners to increase their stock and share with others.
- Border and Background Planting: Due to their height and striking flowers, they are suitable for planting at the back of borders or in mass plantings for a bold effect.
- Color Theme Gardening: The unique plum-purple color of 'Plum Tart' can be used to create a specific color theme or complement the existing palette in the garden.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Crafting Natural Dyes: The petals of Gladiolus 'Plum Tart' can be used to create natural dyes for fabrics, with shades depending on the mordant used.
- Edible Decorations: The blooms are sometimes used to adorn plates or as part of edible flower arrangements in culinary presentations, adding a touch of elegance.
- Bookmark Creation: Dried gladiolus petals make beautiful and delicate bookmarks, preserving the beauty of the flower in a practical application.
- Eco-Friendly Confetti: Dried petals can serve as biodegradable confetti for eco-conscious celebrations, offering a vibrant touch without the environmental impact of plastic.
- Botanical Arts and Crafts: The flowers and leaves can be pressed and used in botanical printmaking, scrapbooking, or other paper crafts.
- Garden Mulch: After blooming, gladiolus leaves and stems can be chopped up and used as green mulch to enrich the soil for other plants.
- Plant Supports: Sturdy gladiolus stems can be repurposed as natural supports for other, more delicate plants in your garden.
- Floral Wreaths: The flowers can be woven into decorative wreaths and garlands for festivals or home decor.
- Photography Subjects: Gladiolus 'Plum Tart' is a spectacular subject for photographers, providing an opportunity to study and capture the intricacy of its blooms.
- Teaching Tool: These plants can be used in educational settings, teaching botany students about bulb growth, plant structure, and floral design.
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, in general, represents strength and integrity, perhaps due to its tall, upright stems that can withstand harsh conditions.
- Infatuation: Giving someone a Gladiolus can signify infatuation or being struck by the recipient's beauty and charm.
- Memory: It also symbolizes remembrance, often used in events and ceremonies to honor those who have passed away or as a symbol of holding onto memories with someone.
- Honor: Gladiolus can indicate honor and conviction, possibly referring to the gladiators who may have worn this flower as a symbol of victory in ancient Rome.
- Grace: 'Plum Tart', with its rich, plum hues, might also mean grace and elegance, reflecting the flower’s delicate appearance and poised stature.
WaterGladiolus, commonly known as sword lilies, require watering once per week with about one to two gallons of water, depending on the weather conditions. It's crucial to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, as good drainage is important to prevent bulb rot. During the active growth period, especially when flower spikes are developing, consistent watering is key to ensure healthy blooms. Reduce watering once the flowers begin to die back and after foliage has yellowed and withered, signaling the end of the plant's growth cycle.
LightSword lilies thrive best in full sun conditions, which means they should receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. An ideal spot would be in a sunny flower bed or border that is not shaded by taller plants or structures during the day. The intense direct sun helps the stems grow strong and the flowers bloom vibrantly.
TemperatureSword lilies prefer warm temperatures and grow best in environments where the temperature ranges from 60 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. They can survive minimum temperatures down to about 35 degrees Fahrenheit but will not tolerate frost. To ensure optimal growth and flower production, maintain them in warm conditions and avoid any sudden drops in temperature.
PruningPruning sword lilies is primarily done to remove spent flower spikes, which encourages the plant to put energy into bulb growth instead of seed production; this is typically after flowering, once the flowers have faded. Additionally, remove any damaged or diseased leaves to maintain plant health. The best time for pruning gladiolus is in late summer or early fall, just before the foliage begins to yellow.
CleaningAs needed
SoilGladiolus, also known as sword lily, thrives in well-draining soil with a mix of loam, sand, and compost, ensuring both moisture retention and proper drainage. The ideal soil pH should range from 6.0 to 6.5.
RepottingSword lilies are generally grown from corms that don’t require frequent repotting; replace the corms every 2-3 years or when they appear overcrowded.
Humidity & MistingSword lilies prefer moderate humidity levels but are fairly adaptable; aim for a humidity range of 40-60%.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright light, and pot in well-draining soil.
Outdoor
Plant corms in sunny spot, in fertile, well-drained soil.
Hardiness zone
7-11 USDA
Life cycleGladiolus 'Plum Tart' begins its life cycle as a corm, a bulb-like underground storage organ, which, when planted and given the right conditions of warmth and moisture, starts to sprout. Emergence of green shoots from the corm signals the start of the vegetative growth stage, where leaves develop and the plant undergoes photosynthesis to gather energy. This is followed by the reproductive stage, where flower spikes emerge, and the striking plum-colored blossoms that give 'Plum Tart' its name open, usually in the mid- to late summer. After flowering, the plant enters a senescence phase where the leaves start to yellow and die back as the plant focuses on transferring energy back to the corm for the next growing season. The corm can be left in the ground or lifted and stored during the dormant period in colder climates to protect it from freezing. A new cycle begins the following growing season when the corm is replanted or naturally re-sprouts, continuing the life cycle of the Gladiolus 'Plum Tart'.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
The Gladiolus 'Plum Tart', often known simply as gladiolus, is commonly propagated through the division of corms. The best time to propagate gladioli by corms is in the spring, after the threat of frost has passed and the soil is beginning to warm up. Gardeners should dig up the corms and gently separate them, making sure that each division has at least one growth point. These individual corms can then be replanted about 4 inches deep and spaced approximately 6 inches apart. It's important to choose a sunny location with well-drained soil to encourage the best growth and flower production. After planting, water the corms thoroughly to help establish them in their new location.
