Gladiolus italicus - Italian Gladiolus

The Field Gladiolus, in Latin Gladiolus italicus, is a wild gladiolus that should not be confused with its famous hybrid, the Byzantine Gladiolus. It is a hardier wild species, native to Mediterranean regions but naturalized in many parts of Europe. This plant has the same stature as the Byzantine gladiolus, flowers at the same time in our gardens, but its pink-purple flowers are finer and less brightly coloured. Smaller, more graceful, and easier to integrate into the garden than the large South African hybrids, it brings a wild and vertical note to sunny flower beds, much more natural. Its flower spikes unfold in early summer or spring depending on the climate, and also make lasting large bouquets for our interiors.

The Field Gladiolus is of sub-Mediterranean origin, meaning it is found in areas with a slightly less dry climate than the true Mediterranean, such as the Toulouse region for example. In nature, it grows up to 1200m (3937ft) altitude, near cultivated areas, often in vineyards, on dry limestone slopes. It is less fragile and more resistant to cold than its large horticultural cousins. Therefore, it is not necessary to dig it up before winter (unless your climate is very harsh). It appreciates well-drained, even sandy soil and full sun exposure. Like many geophyte plants, meaning they have organs that allow them to survive the winter buried in the ground, it blooms before the arrival of summer heat and then rests in a fairly dry, even limestone soil.

Like its cousins, it has an upright habit and a very slender appearance. Flowering occurs from April to June depending on the climate, it is earlier in the south. It takes the form of solid but thin and flexible flower spikes that rise up to 60-70cm (24-28in) from the ground. 9 to 15 flowers are gathered in spikes on the upper third of the stem. Their thin petals open in a funnel shape, 4 to 5cm (2in) long. Their colour varies depending on their ripeness, ranging from more or less mauve or deep pink. The 3 small lower petals show a white central zone. They emerge from a bouquet of very long, simple, upright, sword-shaped leaves. The name of this plant, gladiolus, comes from Latin: this term means "little sword". The leaves are green and have parallel veins. These leaves allow the plant to replenish its food reserves, so do not cut them until they have completely dried.

The Italian Gladiolus serves the same purpose as the Byzantine gladiolus, in the garden or in bouquets. Its intermediate size allows it to blend in among clumps of ornamental grasses in large countryside-inspired flower beds. It can just as easily be the focal point of a small ensemble, surrounded by perennial geraniums, white lilies, catmints, and moss phlox for example. It looks stunning amidst perennial sage 'Serenade' or 'Mainacht', or Scilla peruviana. In a wild atmosphere inspired by Mediterranean coasts, associate it with Achillea umbellata or Achillea millefolium 'Hella Glashoff'. Essential in a predominantly pink composition, it will take over from irises and accompany roses. If your region experiences harsh winters, growing it in a pot allows you to bring it indoors in a greenhouse or conservatory for winter.