GLADIOLUS Cardinalis.
Superb Corn-flag.
Class and Order.—Triandria Monogynia.
Syn. Gladiolus Cardinalis. Bot. Mag. t. 135.
Root bulbous—leaves radical, embracing the stem at the base, linear, lanceolate, striate—scape sometimes two feet in height, drooping, many-flowered—calyx two sheath-like segments, lanceolate, acute—corolla bright scarlet, monopetalous, campanulate, tube long, limb six segments, irregular, oblong, ovate, margins undulate; three smaller segments beautifully marked with a white stripe on the centre of each—stamens three—filaments long, inserted in the tube of the corolla—anthers oblong—style longer than the stamens—stigma divided into three parts.
It is almost impossible to give an adequate representation of the brilliant colour of this beautiful species of Gladiolus, which was introduced into this country from Holland, about the year 1789, by the gardener to the King of Naples: though generally considered a tender plant, it will be found to grow well out of doors, in a southern aspect and sheltered situation, only requiring protection in the winter to keep the roots from severe frosts. Many of the bulbs from the Cape of Good Hope, of which place this is a native, may be grown well with care and attention in the open air, and make a beautiful addition to the flower garden in the summer months. The bulbs should be planted six or eight inches deep in a rich sandy soil, in a south aspect, where they will grow strong and flower freely. The hardiest species are
| G. tristis. | |
| — byzantinus. | |
| — communis. | |
| — carneus. | |
| — segetum. |
Pl. 46.