Gladiolus Purple Flora (15 × bulbs)

A gladioli perennial cut flower with tall spires of dark purple flowers. Position: full sun Soil: moderatelly fertile, moist but well-drained soil Rate of growth: average Flowering period: July to September Hardiness: half hardy (will need winter protection) Bulb size: 10/12 Velvety purple blooms with deeper throat markings make Gladiolus 'Purple Flora' a standout among large-flowered gladioli. Reliably opening 6 to 8 florets, this cultivar is popular for garden planting, exhibitions, and cutting for floral arrangements. Ideal for herbaceous or cottage borders, it pairs beautifully with blue or soft pink flowers and silver foliage. Florists prize its striking flower spikes, which add spectacular visual impact to large vases. Garden care: Plant corms 10-15cm (4-6in) deep and 25cm (10in) apart on a bed of sharp sand to aid drainage. In frost-prone areas, lift them when the leaves turn yellow-brown and store the corms in a dry, frost-free place over winter.