🌸 Gladiolus meaning & symbolism
The gladiolus is a birth flower for August and traditionally symbolises strength of character, integrity and remembrance. Gladioli have tall spikes of large, colourful flowers and are popular in summer gardens and bouquets.
Gladiolus facts
- The name comes from the Latin gladius, meaning sword, because of its sword-shaped leaves.
- Gladioli are also called "sword lilies".
- They open from the bottom of the stem upward.
The other August birth flower is the poppy. See the August birthstone and birth flowers.
Birth flowers by month
- Jan · Carnation
- Jan · Snowdrop
- Feb · Violet
- Feb · Primrose
- Mar · Daffodil
- Mar · Jonquil
- Apr · Daisy
- Apr · Sweet pea
- May · Lily of the valley
- May · Hawthorn
- Jun · Rose
- Jun · Honeysuckle
- Jul · Larkspur
- Jul · Water lily
- Aug · Gladiolus
- Aug · Poppy
- Sep · Aster
- Sep · Morning glory
- Oct · Marigold
- Oct · Cosmos
- Nov · Chrysanthemum
- Dec · Narcissus
- Dec · Holly
Frequently asked questions
What does the gladiolus symbolise?
The gladiolus traditionally symbolises strength of character, integrity and remembrance.
What month is the gladiolus the birth flower for?
The gladiolus is a birth flower for August. The other August birth flower is the poppy.