Gladiolus (Sword Lilies)

Gladiolus’ tall, vibrant flower spikes (July – September) attract hummingbird hawkmoths (Macroglossum stellatarum) and long-tongued bumblebees (Bombus hortorum), which access nectar deep within their tubular blooms. Their sword-like foliage provides shelter for spiders and ground beetles, while their upright structure creates vertical foraging zones for pollinators. Planted in sunny borders or meadow-style plantings, they pair well with UK-natives to extend late-summer nectar supplies. Though non-native, their prolonged flowering and striking form make them valuable for urban gardens, offering both aesthetic appeal and ecological function during seasonal nectar shortages.