Tall autumn bulbous perennial with long sword-like leaves and white, star-shaped drooping flowers with a blackcurrant-purple throat. Not only does it bring nonchalant elegance to the late-summer border but its delicate scent will delight senses too. Not really hardy, it will survive our winters if planted in well-drained soil; otherwise, the corms should be lifted once the foliage has died back, and new cormlets planted afresh in late spring.
H x S: 1m x 0.4m
Aspect and soil: well-drained soil (not clay) in full sun, in a sheltered spot.
Use: Mixed in with other late-summer perennials, especially as part of a southern border, alongside Cannas and Dahlias (especially darker varieties).
Care: If not lifting for winter storage, cover with a protective dry mulch before the frosts.
Wildlife: —
Hazard: Toxic if ingested.
Origin: East Africa (its common name is Abyssinian gladiolus)
Hardiness: H3
GILG GARDEN DESIGN 