Gladiolus byzantinus has been known and loved in British gardens since 1629. Each flower spike has up to 20 magenta flowers with white centres, facing outward all round the stem. Whether set among shrubs or allowed to naturalise in light grass they draw the eye and form pleasing clumps. It should be planted deep in well drained position, where it will self seed freely if allowed to do so.
Planting instructions
Plant in fertile, well drained soil, 4-6” (10-15cm) deep, 4” (10cm) apart in clumps, with added grit if drainage is not good. Apply a high-potash liquid fertiliser when spikes reach about 8” (20cm).