Gladiolus nanus 'Nymph' is an elegant, compact gladiolus producing beautiful pure white flowers decorated with distinctive red-pink markings. The contrasting markings on the lower petals give each bloom a particularly striking appearance, while the slender stems and sword-like foliage retain the graceful character associated with gladioli.
Flowering from May into June and growing to around 60cm tall, 'Nymph' is shorter and earlier flowering than the familiar large-flowered summer gladioli. It is ideal for mixed borders and cottage gardens and also produces excellent stems for cutting.
-
Botanical name: Gladiolus nanus 'Nymph'
-
Common name: Dwarf Gladiolus
-
Plant type: Cormous perennial
-
Flower colour: White with red-pink markings
-
Flowering time: May-June
-
Height: Approximately 60cm (24in)
-
Spread: Approximately 10-15cm
-
Foliage: Narrow, upright, sword-shaped green leaves
-
Position: Full sun
-
Soil: Fertile, well-drained soil
-
Ideal for: Borders, cottage gardens, containers and cut flowers
About Gladiolus nanus 'Nymph'
Nanus gladioli are smaller and more delicate in appearance than the towering large-flowered gladioli commonly grown for summer displays. Their compact growth allows them to blend naturally with herbaceous perennials rather than dominating the border.
'Nymph' is particularly attractive. Its predominantly white flowers are highlighted by vivid reddish-pink, almost diamond-shaped markings towards the centre of several petals. These markings become especially conspicuous when the flowers are viewed together along the stem.
An Early-Flowering Gladiolus
Unlike many gladioli that reach their peak in mid to late summer, Gladiolus nanus 'Nymph' normally flowers during May and June. This makes it useful for bridging the gap between spring bulbs and the main summer perennial display.
The flowers open progressively along upright stems, extending the display and providing plenty of interest in the early summer border.
Where to Grow Gladiolus 'Nymph'
Plant 'Nymph' in a sunny position with fertile, well-drained soil. Good drainage is particularly important during winter, as gladiolus corms are more vulnerable where the ground remains persistently wet.
Its compact 60cm height makes it suitable for the front or middle of a mixed border. It also works well amongst ornamental grasses and lower-growing perennials, where the slender flower stems can rise naturally through surrounding foliage.
How to Plant Gladiolus nanus Corms
Plant the corms approximately 8-10cm deep and around 10-15cm apart, with the pointed growing tip facing upwards. Planting in small groups rather than individually creates a fuller and more natural display.
Water after planting if conditions are dry and maintain adequate moisture while plants are actively growing, without allowing the soil to become waterlogged.
Height and Spread
Gladiolus nanus 'Nymph' reaches approximately 60cm tall with a spread of around 10-15cm. Its relatively short stems are less prone to needing support than taller large-flowered gladioli, particularly when grown amongst other border plants.
Excellent for Cut Flowers
'Nymph' makes an attractive cut flower, with its crisp white petals and contrasting red-pink markings working particularly well in mixed arrangements. Cut stems when the lowest flowers are beginning to open, leaving plenty of foliage on the plant to continue feeding the developing corm.
After Flowering
Remove faded flower stems if seed is not required, but leave the foliage intact. Allow the leaves to yellow and die back naturally so that energy can return to the corm for the following year's growth.
In colder or particularly wet gardens, a sheltered, well-drained planting position will give the corms the best chance of overwintering successfully.
Why Grow Gladiolus nanus 'Nymph'?
- Elegant pure white flowers
- Distinctive red-pink petal markings
- Flowers from May to June
- Compact height of approximately 60cm
- Spread of around 10-15cm
- Excellent addition to cottage-style borders
- Useful early-flowering gladiolus
- Superb for cutting
- Easy to combine with other perennials
Frequently Asked Questions
When does Gladiolus 'Nymph' flower?
'Nymph' normally flowers from May into June, considerably earlier than many of the larger summer-flowering gladioli.
How tall does Gladiolus nanus 'Nymph' grow?
It grows to approximately 60cm (24in) tall.
What is its spread?
Each plant occupies approximately 10-15cm, although several corms can be grouped together for a stronger display.
What colour are the flowers?
The flowers are predominantly pure white with striking red to deep pink markings towards their centres.
Where should I plant Gladiolus 'Nymph'?
Choose a sunny position with fertile, well-drained soil. It is particularly attractive planted in groups through mixed or cottage-style borders.
Can Gladiolus 'Nymph' be grown for cut flowers?
Yes. Its elegant flowers and compact stems make it an excellent cut flower for early summer arrangements.
How deep should I plant the corms?
Plant the corms approximately 8-10cm deep and around 10-15cm apart, with the growing point facing upwards.
With its crisp white flowers, vivid red-pink markings and graceful compact habit, Gladiolus nanus 'Nymph' is a distinctive early-flowering gladiolus for both the garden and the vase.
