Byzantine Gladiolus

Sun to partial sun, with narrow iris-like foliage. Bright magenta or fuschia blossoms appear with the first hot weather in mid spring or early summer. Byzantine glads are a hardy bulb often recommended for southern gardens. The roots can handle very dry conditions. Without supplemental water the foliage will wither by summer, like any wildflower; but it returns even stronger the next year. Bulbs persist without any attention at old homesteads and gravesides; in a well-watered garden setting, they tend to multiply. Byzantine glads may be difficult to find outside of specialty bulb stores, though many short-lived hybrid lookalikes are sold. It’s worth the trouble to find a reputable source for the corms.