Flower Meanings: Gladiolus (Sword Lily) |
Origin & History
The name "gladiolus" is derived from the Latin word gladius, meaning
"sword," for the shape of its leaves. An ancient name for the gladiolus was
"xiphium," from the Greek word xiphos, also meaning sword. African gladioli
were imported in large quantities to Europe from South Africa during the
18th century.
Sentiment & Symbolism
The gladiolus flower is the birth flower for August; it also
represented the Roman gladiators. Before the African gladioli became popular
in the West, the Mediterranean and British gladiolus flowers were used to
treat physical ailments. The English used the gladiolus flower's stem base
(corms) as a poultice and for drawing out thorns and splinters; powdered
corms mixed with goat's milk was commonly used to soothe the symptoms of
colic.
Color Messages
The gladiolus flower signifies remembrance. It also expresses
infatuation, telling the receiver that he or she "pierces the heart."
Flower Meanings
Alstroemeria |
Aster |
Bird of Paradise |
Calendula |
Carnation
Chrysanthemum |
Daffodil |
Daisy |
Fern |
Gladiolus |
Heleconia |
Holly
Kalanchoe |
Kangaroo Paw |
Larkspur |
Lily |
Lily of the Valley |
Orchid
Poinsettia |
Queen Anne's Lace |
Rose |
Snapdragon |
Sunflower |
Tulip |
Violet