Gladiolus hirsutus Jacq.
A variable cormous perennial, the leaves often fairly short, flowers in 3-6-flowered spike, whitish or pink to purple, streaked on the lower lobes with a darker colour. To 50cm. [RHSD, Hortus, CECB].
Horticultural & Botanical History
Curtis’s Botanical Magazine figures a number of varieties. ‘The present variety flowers in May, and smells very like the flowers of Hawthorn or May. It scarcely ever blows two years together of the same size or colour, varying from a deep purplish rose colour to a pale pink nearly white. Much of its beauty depends on skilful cultivation.’ [BM t.574/1802]. ‘This small flowered variety blossoms as early as January. Jacquin makes it a distinct species from the hirsutus of our No. 574; he had overlooked its pubescence, which when not searched for, by holding the plant against the light, is not easily perceived.’ [BM t.727/1804].
Introduced to Britain in 1795. [JD]. BM t.823/1805. BM t.992/1807. ABR t.11/1798.
History at Camden Park
Listed in all published catalogues [B.145/1843]. Received per ‘Sovereign’ February 1831. [MP A2948].
Notes
Gladiolus hirsutus has been confused with Gladiolus caryophyllaceus (Burm.f.) Poir. which see.
Published Oct 26, 2009 - 03:10 PM | Last updated Jul 23, 2010 - 12:07 PM
Gladiolus hirsutus Jacq. | BM t.574/1802 | RBGS
| Family | Iridaceae |
|---|---|
| Category | |
| Region of origin | South Africa, Cape district |
| Synonyms |
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| Common Name | |
| Name in the Camden Park Record | Gladiolus hirsutus |
| Confidence level | high |
