Gladiolus (Gladiolus 'Atom') glad-ee-OH-lus Genus:  Gladiolus

A glad for people who would normally never grow them, 'Atom' is about half the size of regular varieties, growing to at most 3 feet tall. This 1946 classic blends easily into perennial borders, and it won't get lost because its flowers are blazing red cooled by a thin, silvery edge.

Noteworthy Characteristics: 

Shorter stature than most glads, with an eye-catching flower color that nevertheless fits well into borders.

Care: 

Full sun to part shade in fertile, well-drained soil. Treat as annuals, or dig up and store 6 weeks after bloom (dip in fungicide and allow to dry for a few weeks).

Propagation: 

Sow seed at 59°F in spring. Separate cormlets when dormant.

Problems: 

Gladiolus corm rot (Fusarium), gray mold (Botrytis), viruses, aster yellows, spider mites, thrips, aphids.

Overview

Height 1 ft. to 3 ft. Spread 6 in. to 12 in. Growth Habit Clumps Growth Pace Moderate Grower Light Full Sun to Part Shade Moisture Medium Moisture Maintenance Moderate Characteristics Showy Flowers Bloom Time Summer Flower Color Red Uses Beds and Borders, Cut Flower, Suitable as Annual Style Cottage Garden Seasonal Interest Summer Interest Type Perennials