Gladiolus 'Oscar' is a tall giant-flowered gladiolus grown for its rich velvet red blooms. Strong upright stems carry impressive flower spikes filled with large dramatic flowers during summer.

The bold colour and tall form make this variety ideal for adding height and strong colour to borders and cut flower gardens.

• Height: 120–150cm
• Spread: 20–30cm
• Flower colour: deep blood red
• Flowering time: mid to late summer
• Position: full sun
• Soil: fertile, well-drained soil

About Gladiolus 'Oscar'

Gladiolus 'Oscar' forms upright stems lined with narrow sword-shaped green leaves. Each flowering spike can carry around 12–15 large blooms arranged along the stem.

The flowers have a velvet-like appearance and a deep red colour that stands out strongly in the garden.

This classic gladiolus variety is widely grown for its bold summer display and for use in floral arrangements.

Common names include:

• Oscar gladiolus
• Red sword lily

Benefits for UK Wildlife

Gladiolus flowers can provide seasonal interest for visiting insects.

• Flowers may attract pollinating insects
• Adds diversity to wildlife-friendly summer borders
• Works well alongside nectar-rich perennials

Plant in mixed borders with other summer flowering plants to increase pollinator activity.

Where to Grow Gladiolus 'Oscar'

• Sunny garden borders
• Cut flower gardens
• Cottage garden planting
• Mixed summer beds
• Sheltered patio containers

Plant in groups for the most dramatic effect when the flower spikes appear.

Planting Tips

• Plant corms from spring once frost risk has passed.
• Choose a sunny, sheltered location.
• Plant corms about 10–12cm deep.
• Space corms 10–15cm apart.
• Use fertile soil with good drainage.
• Water during dry periods while plants grow.

Stagger planting times every two weeks in spring if you want a longer flowering period.

Why Grow Gladiolus 'Oscar'

• Large dramatic velvet red flowers
• Tall stems create strong vertical interest
• Excellent cut flowers for arrangements
• Bright summer colour for sunny borders
• Easy to grow from corms

If you want bold summer colour and tall flower spikes, Gladiolus 'Oscar' provides a striking display in borders and cutting gardens.