Gladiolus (Sword Lily, Corn Lily)

Gladiolas are popping up everywhere; in posh restaurants, farmers' markets and even on restaurant menus. Did you know these blooms can be stuffed for beautiful entrees? Think grilled chicken or seafood salads.

Recent gladiolus breeding has produced spectacular results - wild tropical colors, fantastic two- and three-tones and wavy blooms on stems 4-5 feet tall. Pop a dozen or two in the garden every couple of weeks for an supply of miraculous flowers from mid summer well into autumn.

The fellow who grows our tall glads has been a partner for years. Because of this he lets us dip into the limited supply of enormous gladiolus bulbs usually reserved for his very best cut flower customers. These giant 16+cm bulbs, which sometimes develop two heavy flower stems each rather than the usual single, are hard to find but worth the search. Give them a try!