Gladiolus Meaning

The gladiolus is the flower of verticality: spikes up to a meter (about 3 ft) tall that open from the bottom up. It is what you use when you need height and presence.

Where the name comes from

From gladius, the short Roman sword, because of the shape of its leaves. In Rome, gladioli were thrown to victorious gladiators, and that is the source of all the honor and victory the flower carries.

What it symbolizes

• Strength of character and integrity. The dominant meaning.
• Honor and remembrance. That is why it is common in tributes and memorial offerings.
• A love that pierces the heart. The Victorian reading, now secondary.

It is the flower for the fortieth wedding anniversary and the birth flower of August.

Where it works and where it does not

It works in tall arrangements: entrances, stands, churches, event halls, funeral tributes. It is hard to use in a hand-tied bouquet or a low centerpiece, because the spike is rigid and will not settle into place.

Keep in mind that in Argentina the gladiolus has a strong association with funerals. It is not a rule, but if the gift is celebratory, it is better to pair it with color or choose another species.

The tip trick

Snip off the tip of the spike —the two or three smallest buds at the top— as soon as you put it in water. It sounds counterintuitive, but removing that end makes the plant redirect energy to the lower flowers, which open better and last longer.

Availability of each flower changes with the season. If you are looking for a specific flower, ask us before ordering and we will confirm whether we have it.