The name in Latin means "sword"due to the shape of its leaves. The flower is said to have represented the Roman gladiators. A mixture of powdered corms and goat's milk was a favorite remedy for colic. In the 18th Century, African Gladioli were imported in large quantities to Europe from South Africa.

Gladiolus: Ready-armed

Iris: Message, my compliments, eloquence

Flower of the month: August