Flirty Gladiolus Bulbs

Light Needs

Full Sun

(6+ Hours Direct Sun)

Mature Height

3-4 Feet

Mature Spread

6-9 Inches

Growing Zones

8 to 10

Flirty Gladiolus Bulbs give summer cutting gardens tall purple flower spikes with a clean white accent through each petal. Gladiolus 'Flirty' grows about 36 to 48 inches tall, with large royal-purple florets arranged along upright stems. The white midrib gives every bloom definition, so the flowers stand out beautifully in both borders and vases. Designers find this variety especially useful when a bouquet needs height and cooler color without turning too dark.

This spring-planted gladiolus grows from corms and blooms in mid-summer, usually after the soil has warmed well and the plants have had time to build strong stems. Its sword-like foliage is narrow and vertical, making it easy to fit between lower annuals and perennials. The flowers attract hummingbirds and butterflies, while deer usually leave gladiolus alone. Use Flirty Gladiolus Bulbs in cutting rows, sunny mixed borders, large patio containers, or as a purple accent behind shorter summer bloomers.

Flirty Gladiolus Bulbs Care

Plant Flirty Gladiolus Bulbs in full sun, with 6 to 8 hours of direct light for the strongest stems and best flowering. Grow them in well-drained soil, including sandy, loamy, or improved garden soil that does not stay wet after rain. A slightly acidic to neutral soil pH, about 6.0 to 7.0, is a good range for healthy corm development.

Water thoroughly after planting, then keep the soil evenly moist once shoots begin growing. During hot weather, water deeply when the soil dries a few inches down, especially as flower spikes are forming. Fertilize lightly when buds begin to develop with a balanced or bloom-supporting fertilizer according to the label. In zones 3 to 7, lift corms after frost, dry them, and store them in a cool, dry, frost-free place.

Cut stems for arrangements when the lowest florets begin to open. Leave several leaves on the plant so the corm can store energy for next season. Remove spent flower stalks after bloom, and stake tall stems in windy sites or exposed containers.

Flirty Gladiolus Bulbs Spacing

Plant Flirty Gladiolus Bulbs 3 to 4 inches deep in heavier soil or 4 to 6 inches deep in looser soil, with the pointed end facing up. Space corms 6 to 9 inches apart, or plant small groups every 1 to 2 weeks from spring into early summer for a longer bloom period. For containers, choose a deep pot at least 14 to 16 inches wide with drainage holes, and place it where tall stems are protected from strong wind.

For container companions, pair Flirty Gladiolus Bulbs with bacopa, calibrachoa, or verbena to trail around the lower stems without hiding the flower spikes. In landscape beds, Russian sage and yarrow suit the same sunny, well-drained conditions and complement the purple flowers with airy texture. Dahlias extend the cutting season nearby, and little bluestem grass gives a fine upright backdrop that supports the gladiolus visually without crowding the corms.

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