Colours and shapes
Gladioli are distinctive because the flowers bloom on both sides of the stem. The flowers come in white, red, yellow, pink, purple, orange, cream. Some varieties even boast multiple colours per stem.
Symbolism
The gladiolus is full of heroism. The name comes from the Latin word ‘gladius’, which means sword and symbolises strength, victory and pride. That meaning dates all the way back to Roman times, when gladiators fought to death in the Colosseum. The victor would be showered in gladioli by adoring members of the crowd. Even today, the Dutch version of our phrase 'death or glory' is 'death or gladioli' and victors in cycling races or walking events are given a buch of the flowers at the finish line.
A spectacular bouquet
These all-conquering flowers are tall and require some attention to stop them pointing off in every direction. In a bouquet, they combine very well with hydrangea, solidago and Sanguisorba officinalis. Ask your local florist to make up this bouquet for you, then find a vase with matching colours to finish the arrangement in style.
