Gladiolus 'Bonfire'
gladioli or sword lily
Gladiolus ‘Bonfire’ is a striking cultivated variety known for its vivid, fiery colour blend. Tall, elegant flower spikes rise above sword-shaped, mid-green foliage, producing densely packed florets in shades of pillar-box red with hints of bright orange giving a glowing, flame-like effect—hence the name 'Bonfire'. Blooms appear from midsummer into late summer making it excellent for adding bold vertical interest and late-season drama to borders or cutting gardens.
How to care for Gladiolus Bonfire:
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.
Gladioli grow best in full sun and well-drained soil, with protection from strong winds. Once planted, water regularly during dry spells and support taller plants with canes if needed. Feed every couple of weeks with a high potash fertiliser as the flower spikes develop. Deadhead spent blooms to encourage more flowers further down the stem.
After flowering, allow the foliage to die back naturally so the corms can store energy for the next season. In milder areas, corms can be left in the ground with a dry mulch for winter; otherwise, lift and store them in a frost-free place.
Gladioli grow best in full sun and well-drained soil, with protection from strong winds. Once planted, water regularly during dry spells and support taller plants with canes if needed. Feed every couple of weeks with a high potash fertiliser as the flower spikes develop. Deadhead spent blooms to encourage more flowers further down the stem.
After flowering, allow the foliage to die back naturally so the corms can store energy for the next season. In milder areas, corms can be left in the ground with a dry mulch for winter; otherwise, lift and store them in a frost-free place.
Flowering period:
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Eventual height:
1.2m
Eventual spread:
0.45m
Position:
Full sun / light shade
Rate of growth:
Average
Soil:
Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil
Hardiness:
Borderline hardy (will need protection in winter in colder areas)
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This bulb dies back after flowering each year and enters a period of rest ahead of regrowth the following season.
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Pets: Harmful if eaten; Humans: Ornamental bulbs - not to be eaten
15 × bulbs
£6.99
£0.47 each
Delivered by early February
45 × bulbs
£18.00
£0.40 each
Delivered by early February
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