Gladiolus

Gladiolus is a perennial plant that is multiplied by bulbs, part of the family Iridaceae. Sometimes called "sword lily", the most used name for this plant remains Gladiolus. Types Oenostachys, Homoglossum, Anomalesia and Acidanthera, which initially were considered independent species, currently classified as the gladiolus.

Iridaceae family also includes 260 species, of which 250 are native to Africa (the Sahara) and South Africa. About ten species are native to Eurasia (Europe / Asia). There are 160 endemic species in South Africa and 76 specific varieties of tropical Africa. These classes vary greatly, with the small flowers and discreet, to huge flowers, these categories are used especially in commerce.

Gladiolus flowers come in a wide range of colors, from pink to reddish violet, with markings on the petals, to the flowers white, cream or orange.