'Zizanie' is a large-flowering gladiolus that adds vibrant energy to summer gardens. Growing 16 to 36 inches tall, its vertical flower stalks emerge above sword-shaped foliage, opening from the bottom up to reveal dramatic, orchid-like blooms splashed with bright red and white. These unique flowers make a bold statement, whether planted in the garden or featured in floral arrangements.
A Gladiolus x hortulanus variety, also called gladiolus, sword lilies, or glads, 'Zizanie' is a tender perennial in Zones 7-10. It creates the biggest impact when grouped or mass-planted in beds, borders, containers, or rock gardens. For taller plants, staking may be necessary to keep blooms upright in breezy areas.
'Zizanie' is easy to grow, thriving in sunny to partially shaded locations with fertile, well-draining soil that retains adequate moisture. Improve sandy or clay soils with organic amendments like bark or peat moss for better growth. Fertilize lightly after planting and again in summer with a balanced plant food. Water deeply at planting and consistently during the growing and blooming phases. Avoid waterlogging the soil, and apply a mulch layer to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature.
Plant bulbs in a wind-sheltered area after frost danger has passed, spacing them 4 to 6 inches apart and planting 4 to 6 inches deep. To enjoy blooms over a longer period, stagger plantings every two weeks in spring. After blooms fade, let the foliage grow until it browns or frost threatens. Lift, clean, and store the corms in a cool, dry place (40-50°F) until spring planting.
