Gladiolus is an extra beautiful flower with slender and tall blossoms. To the people born in August, it holds much meaning since it is their birth flower. Gladiolus signifies strength, morality, and remembrance. Therefore, this bloom is very great to mark special moments with special individuals. The strange shape of the flower, almost shaped like a sword, with various vibrant colors, drew the interest of many cultures as time went by.
If you love these flowers and still do not know well about the gladiolus flower meaning, keep scrolling down to explore. In this article, we look at what the gladiolus symbolizes, its cultural significance, and when this flower is best given. Keep in mind that these special gladioluses speak volumes than you may think.
Gladiolus Flower Insights
Before learning about the meaning of gladiolus, we will discover the meaning behind its fascinating names, its main characteristics as well as some common types.
What Does “Gladiolus” Mean?
The word “gladiolus” comes from the Latin term “gladius“, which means “sword.” It is a flower that stands tall and pointed, much like a blade. Historically, the gladiolus was a representation of Roman gladiators to inspire strength, honor, and victory. Over time, its meaning came to include such qualities as courage and moral integrity, making it a potent and meaningful bloom to share.
Characteristics of Gladiolus
Gladiolus has its origin in South Africa in the 18th century. However, some of its species can be native to the Mediterranean region or Europe. And now, we can find these gorgeous flowers around the world.
Gladiolus flowers can be easily recognized by their tall stalks, rising to as high as 4 feet. Each stalk is lined with trumpet-shaped flowers in a wide array of colors. Opening from the bottom of the stalk to the top, these flowers create an amazing display that has them looking like a little burst of color on a pole. Gladiolus flowers can remain fresh for days and often have been perceived to represent inner strength and character.
Types of Gladiolus Flower
There are many types of gladiolus (over 250 varieties). We can divide them into 2 groups: small gladiolus & large gladiolus and there are various varieties in each group. Butterfly Gladioli & Primulinus Gladioli are the most 2 well-known varieties in the large group. On the other hand, Nanus, Colvillii Alba, and Tubergenii are some famous names you can hear.
Beautiful Gladiolus Flower Meaning & Symbolism
Gladiolus flower meaning is as rich and beautiful as their look. Because of its deep meaning, gladiolus can be gifted on many occasions to transfer heartfelt messages from the givers.
Why Is Gladiolus The Birth Flower of August?
Gladiolus is chosen to be the birth flower of August because of its association with strength, honor, and remembrance. The month of August signals the closing of the summer and the season of harvest. Therefore, gladiolus plants signify those who are strongest and most persevering, just like people born in this month.
Gladiolus Flower Meaning In Celebrating 40th Anniversary
A gladiolus is a traditional flower associated with the 40th wedding anniversary. These flowers signify the strength and beauty of love that have developed over 4 decades. Their towering height and sturdy stems represent the strong foundation of a long-lasting marriage.
Spiritual Gladiolus Flower Meaning
The gladiolus flower is a symbol of inner strength and endurance, meaning the capability to stand up against life’s challenges. It is also a symbol of spiritual growth and moral integrity, reflecting the journey towards enlightenment and self-discovery. Deeply associated with remembrance, the gladiolus is often used to honor loved ones in spiritual traditions.
Gladiolus Flower Meaning By Culture
Gladiolus is loved in many cultures for its endurance and characteristics. Let’s see what gladiolus will mean in different cultures and eras.
Roman Culture
The gladiolus flower stood in Roman culture for strength and victory. It was inspired by the gladiators who fought fearlessly in the arena. The unique, long shape of this flower became a symbol of a warrior’s spirit which emphasizes triumph and gives strength in battle.
Victorian Era
In Victorian times, gladiolus expressed passion for romantic love and deep admiration. It was the flower of choice for anyone seeking to declare love. Victorians believed the beauty of the gladiolus could communicate passionate feelings without words.
Chinese Culture
They believe the gladiolus represents the fighting spirit and struggle for success. The tall, erect growth of the plant signifies overcoming difficulties in life and reaching success in personal and professional life.
Ancient Greece
In Greece, a long time ago, gladiolus was associated with the season of harvest and plenty. Its blooming during this period symbolized the richness of nature and a reminder of the rewards that flow from hard work.
Gladiolus Flower Meaning By Colors
Gladioluses come in various color shades. Each color will bring its own meaning that we will discover right away below:
White Gladiolus Flowers
The white gladiolus is a symbol of purity, innocence, sincerity, and spiritual renovation. It is a flawless choice usually used at weddings, anniversaries, funerals, or spiritual ceremonies.
Yellow Gladiolus Flowers
This color shade expresses happiness, positivity, and friendship. The bright color and sunny tone imply happy and warm feelings. Thus, yellow gladiolus flowers are often used to celebrate personal achievements, such as graduations or job promotions. They are also favorite flower picks for housewarming, close friends’ birthdays, or to encourage someone to overcome illness.
Red Gladiolus Flowers
Red gladiolus represents passionate love, courage, strength, and at the same time, beauty. This makes it perfect for expressing romantic feelings or honoring someone’s bravery and determination. Besides roses, red tulips, carnations, and alstroemerias, you can give red gladiolus flowers to your lover on Valentine’s Day. Birthdays and anniversaries are also great chances for you to bring some fresh red gladioluses.
Pink Gladiolus Flowers
Pink flowers represent compassion, respect, and motherly love. Its soft and tender tone makes it popular for expressing love sweetly and tenderly. The most suitable occasions for the appearance of pink gladiolus are Mother’s Day, birthdays, anniversaries, or a lovely and romantic date night.
Purple Gladiolus Flowers
The purple flowers speak of charm, mystery, dignity, and spiritual insight. Hence, this will be an awesomely significant gift to a person who shows grace or intellectual depth, such as a job promotion or housewarming.
Blue Gladiolus Flowers
This is the flower of calmness, trust, and tranquillity. It could be given as a reassurance gesture to provide support and understanding where most needed. If your loved ones or friends face difficulties in life, a bouquet of blue gladiolus flowers can comfort them.
FAQs
Gladiolus flowers are poisonous, especially to companion animals, like dogs, cats, and children. Gladiolus bulbs contain poisonous chemicals that, when consumed, can induce inflammation, vomiting, and diarrhea. Flowers and stems, although less toxic, will cause more serious symptoms when ingested in large amounts.
Depending on keeping conditions, gladiolus cut flowers are expected to last about 7 to 10 days. To maximize the vase life, you should trim the stems at an angle, get rid of all leaves submerged in water, and place them in fresh water with flower food.
Wrapping Up
You can see that gladiolus flowers can be chosen for many occasions. This is because of the profound and beautiful gladiolus flower meaning. From their breathtakingly beautiful variety of colors down to their deeply rooted cultural significance, the gladiolus is the strong symbol of strength, victory, endurance, and love — a timeless flower touching hearts in many ways.