FLOWER OF THE DAY ~ Gladioli (Gladiolus)

Gladioli are a helpful flower to have around if you are feeling things are proving a bit difficult for you. They boost creative growth, help with boundary setting and give you a lift.

As a Flower Oracle, they will indicate that you must not give up on something but they will warn you to look after yourself and what is yours.

Their scientific name comes to us via an alternate common name. They are known throughout many European regions as 'Sword Lily'. In Ancient Rome a soldiers' sword was known as a 'gladius' and a short sword as a 'gladiolus'. Naturally this is the origin also of the term 'Gladiator' for those who battled with swords in the great arenas of the time.

The image I've shared today is actually of one my Gladdys flowering at home right now. They are a Summer-blooming plant that needs to be planted out in Spring as soon as the last of the frost (if occurring in your area) have occurred.
Try to plant in a sheltered position but all the same, they may need to be staked as they grow. They will prefer a very sunny spot, to be well watered but not overly so. I leave mine in after flowering as I'm in Sydney, Australia, but you may need to dig yours up after flowering and store for next Spring if you are in a particular cold place. Remember to leave the foliage until it has all died down before cutting back as the leaves are busty storing nutrients for next years flowering.
bunches of love,
Cheralyn 🌸

card from 'Flower Petals. blossoming guidance from the garden',
written & illustrated by Cheralyn Darcey, Botanical Explorer, Author & Artist, published by Rockpool Publishing
This deck features 40 different Flowers Affirmations based on the Language of Flowers.