Gladiolus

/ɡlædiˈoʊləs/ noun

Definition

A tall flowering plant with sword-shaped leaves and flowers arranged in a spike, grown in many colors like pink, red, purple, and white.

Etymology

From Latin gladiolus meaning 'small sword,' derived from gladius (sword). Named for the distinctive shape of the plant's blade-like leaves that resemble a gladiator's weapon.

Kelly Says

This flower is so popular in floral arrangements that florists have special tricks for cutting them—when you cut them at an angle and remove the top flower, it helps the blooms below keep opening! The 'sword' in its name also connects it to strength and elegance in flower symbolism.

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