This 3- to 4-foot-tall glad has luminous deep purplish-rose flowers. It dates from 1959 and is called ‘Fidelio’ after Beethoven’s joyous opera.
Noteworthy CharacteristicsSoft-lavender blossoms.
CareFull 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).
PropagationSow seed at 59°F in spring. Separate cormlets when dormant.
ProblemsGladiolus corm rot (Fusarium), gray mold (Botrytis), viruses, aster yellows, spider mites, thrips, aphids.
- Genus : Gladiolus
- Plant Width : 1 to 3 feet
- Zones : 10, 8, 9
- Plant Height : 3 to 6 feet
- Light : Full Sun to Partial Shade
- Moisture : Medium Moisture
- Growth Rate : Moderate
- Maintenance : Moderate
- Plant Type : Perennials
- Bloom Time : Spring, Summer
- Plant Seasonal Interest : Spring Interest
Plant Characteristics are only available to Fine Gardening members
Sign up for a free trial and get instant access to our complete plant guide as well as our entire collection of articles and videos.
