Quick read / the essentials on our Gladiolus Bulbs
At Floriverse , we put our expertise at the service of French floriculturists with a clear ambition: to become your specialist wholesale supplier of Flower Bulbs . Our offer dedicated to professionals allows you to buy Gladiolus Bulbs in optimal conditions, with access to a complete range of sizes, segments (organic, untreated, conventional) and varieties suitable for cut flowers or landscaping.
Gladiolus is a staple of summer crops, appreciated for its spectacular flower stems, its prolonged vase life (up to 15 days), and its ability to respond to staggered production. Thanks to its robust corms, it fits perfectly into successive planting schedules from March to June, with flowering lasting from July until the first frosts. As a specialist wholesale supplier of Flower Bulbs , Floriverse guarantees you rigorously controlled batches, adapted to the requirements of professional producers.
We exclusively offer Gladiolus bulbs with high horticultural potential: sizes 8/10, export quality, uniform vegetative propagation, and full traceability. Whether it's Grandiflorus for structured bouquets or mini-gladioli in contemporary style, you can buy Gladiolus bulbs from us with the certainty of receiving healthy, consistent, and high-performing plants.
Trust Floriverse, your specialist wholesale supplier of flower bulbs , for personalized technical support, competitive prices and fast delivery throughout France. For all your projects, you can now buy Gladiolus bulbs with complete peace of mind.
Wide range of Gladiolus flower bulbs
We offer a wide range of Gladiolus flower bulbs specifically designed for professional florists looking for quality, performance, and consistency in cultivation. Our catalog includes:
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Organic Gladiolus flower bulbs : produced to strict standards without chemical inputs, suitable for certified or conversion farms
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Untreated bulbs : without post-harvest treatment, to meet the expectations of producers concerned about naturalness
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Conventional bulbs : from specialist nurseries , selected for their size, uniformity and high yield potential
All our batches are rigorously checked to guarantee impeccable health , regular flowering and optimal adaptation to professional growing schedules.
The Gladiolus Cut Flower Market in France: Analysis 2022–2025
State of the French cut flower market
The French cut flower market is evolving in a context of transition: in 2022, only 41% of households purchased cut flowers outside of mourning, compared to 43.7% in 2019. This market contraction is accompanied by a structural dependence on imports, which represent 80 to 85% of the volumes sold, mainly from the Netherlands, Belgium, Italy and East Africa.
However, the overall market value increased by +17.9% between 2019 and 2021, reflecting growing interest in differentiated and local production. This dynamic creates targeted opportunities for French producers, particularly in specialized segments such as Gladiolus.
Gladiolus in the French sector
Gladiolus is one of the most popular summer-flowering bulbs among professionals, thanks to its long vase life (up to 15 days) and its wide variety of varieties. It allows for staggered production from July to the first frosts and a flexible response to aesthetic trends, with:
- Large gladioli (Grandiflorus type), for structured bouquets
- Mini-gladioli , very popular in contemporary floral arrangements
This species lends itself well to successive plantings and fits easily into segmented growing schedules.
Distinction between organic, untreated and conventional market
The conventional market remains the majority. In 2022, French imports of gladiolus bulbs reached €2.1 million, with an average professional price of €0.20 to €0.25 for sizes 8/10.
Conversely, untreated and organic bulbs are experiencing modest but steady growth. They command a 15 to 25% higher price due to their ethical and technical characteristics. In 2025, the first signs of strain on untreated bulb stocks were reported, confirming a surge in demand.
Outlook for Suppliers
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Professional calibration : preference for sizes 8/10 and 6/+, standard in open-field floriculture
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Dual organic and conventional positioning to address all market segments
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Recommended varietal diversification , including botanical species such as Gladiolus byzantinus or G. ochroleucus
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Regional approach : PACA, Pays-de-la-Loire and Île-de-France account for more than 60% of French cut flower production
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Essential technical support : spreading out plantings, forcing techniques, management of batches in cold storage
Our sales arguments for flower growers
As a specialist in flower bulbs , we ensure a simple and smooth agricultural supply without complications , with a responsive sales department that responds to you within 48 hours. Our Gladiolus flower bulbs , from specialized nurseries , are available at producer prices , with an unbeatable quality-price ratio .
Each order benefits from a personalized and free quote , accompanied by dedicated technical advice and a complete technical itinerary . Whether you are in the South, West or East of France, we ensure careful delivery everywhere in France , in less than 15 days during the season, or by reservation in advance .
Whether you are looking for an online sale or a wholesale order , our offer adapts with decreasing prices according to volumes and a strictly professional quality. All our batches are traceable and selected for their regularity, with the support of a dedicated technical support for your Gladiolus cultures.
Botanical and taxonomic characteristics of the genus Gladiolus
The genus Gladiolus, commonly called gladiolus or sometimes "sword lily" because of the shape of its foliage, is a species of major interest to horticultural professionals, particularly for the production of cut flowers and the beautification of landscaped areas. Belonging to the botanical family Iridaceae , more precisely to the subfamily Crocoideae and the tribe Gladioleae , this genus is vast, comprising around 260 species according to some estimates, or nearly 180 species of corm plants according to other technical sources. The type species, Gladiolus communis L. , was described by Linnaeus in 1753. Although mainly native to southern Africa, the center of its diversity, species are also found in Mediterranean Europe, Asia, the Arabian Peninsula, and tropical and temperate Africa. In France, Gladiolus imbricatus is a notable and native species, present in a relict state.
Plant morphology and structure
Gladiolus grows from a corm , a swollen underground structure that is not a bulb in the strict sense, but a modified stem serving as a nutrient reserve. These corms are generally round and symmetrical, protected by several layers of fibrous tunics. The adult plant has a typically upright, erect or "spiky" habit, with a height varying according to the cultivar. For large flowers intended for production, the plant commonly reaches between 1.00 m and 1.50 m at maturity. More compact varieties are between 0.45 m and 1.00 m . This structured habit, with its vertical flower stem, is a major asset for harvesting and holding in bouquets.
The foliage is distinctive, consisting of long, narrow, sword-shaped ( ensiform ) leaves arranged in a vertical fan. Each plant typically produces between 8 and 12 leaves . These leaves are 1 to 8 cm wide and are mostly erect, their firm texture contributing to their upright habit. The fan-like arrangement at the base of the flower stem plays a role in the plant's stability and photosynthetic capacity. The foliage is deciduous, turning yellow after flowering to indicate the end of the above-ground growth cycle.
The flowers, the main commercial attraction, are typically funnel- or trumpet-shaped, borne along a long, erect flower spike. They open sequentially from the base to the top of the spike. Flower size varies considerably among species and varieties: for Gladiolus communis ssp. byzantinus , they are between 2 and 5 cm long , while large horticultural varieties can reach 7 to 15 cm or more . A flower spike for G. communis ssp. byzantinus is about 60 to 65 cm tall , but grandiflora hybrids can reach 80 to 120 cm . The dominant color for G. communis ssp. byzantinus is dark magenta or purplish-pink, but horticultural varieties offer a very wide palette including white, pink, red, orange, yellow, purple, and bicolors. The fragrance is generally absent or very subtle in most varieties grown for cut flowers, although some botanical species may be slightly fragrant. Each flower stem bears a variable number of flowers, typically between 10 and 20 for G. communis ssp. byzantinus, and 10 to 25 in the larger horticultural varieties.
Cultivation protocols and agronomic requirements
Environmental parameters and hardiness
Gladiolus is a perennial corm plant, capable of living and reflowering for several years under favorable conditions. However, in temperate climates, it is often grown as an annual or biennial plant due to its limited hardiness. Most horticultural varieties cannot tolerate frost, being damaged at temperatures as low as 0 °C or -1 °C , although some rare selections can tolerate temperatures as low as -6 °C . The minimum recommended USDA zone is 8-9 , which means that outside of the very mild Mediterranean or coastal regions in France, removal of corms in autumn or winter protection is essential.
Successful cultivation depends on precise soil and exposure conditions. Gladiolus prefers light, well-drained soil, ideally sandy or slightly loamy , rich in organic matter. Excellent drainage is crucial, as the corms are very susceptible to rot in soggy soil, especially in winter. The optimal pH is between 6.5 and 6.8 , as overly acidic soil can negatively impact flowering and promote fusarium. Full sun exposure is essential, at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day , as the plant does not flower in the shade.
Planting calendar and implantation techniques
Flowering in France is mainly from July to September for spring plantings. The planting period extends from March to June . To obtain continuous flowering on a farm, it is technically possible to stagger plantings every 10 to 15 days from March to June. The flowering of an individual flower stem lasts on average 10 to 15 days .
The ideal planting calendar runs from mid-March to May in mild regions, and from mid-May to early June in most French regions after the risk of late frosts has passed. Autumn planting (September-October) is possible in areas with very mild winters. The soil temperature must be stable above 10°C . Corms are planted with the tip upwards. The technically recommended planting depth for large gladioli is 15 to 20 cm to ensure good stability and straight stems, and 10 to 15 cm for dwarf gladioli. The spacing between each corm is generally 10 to 15 cm to allow good air circulation and optimal development, up to 20 cm for large varieties intended for cutting. For propagation bulbils, a reduced spacing of around 5 cm is sufficient.
Irrigation and fertilization management
In terms of watering requirements, Gladiolus is relatively demanding, requiring about two waterings per week during the active growing season, especially during flowering. Regular watering at the base is important to maintain humidity, while avoiding overwatering. Mulching is recommended to keep the soil cool, limit evaporation and reduce watering, especially organic mulch 5 to 7 cm thick .
Fertilization contributes to vigorous growth. Applying a potash-rich fertilizer during growth and flowering is beneficial, for example, a diluted liquid fertilizer once or twice a month for potted crops. Adding well-rotted compost before planting also enriches the soil.
Cultural maintenance and technical operations
Routine maintenance includes regular weeding, which is essential to avoid competition with weeds. Staking is often necessary for tall varieties to support flower stems, especially in windy areas. Removing spent flowers encourages the development of more flower buds and directs energy to the corm.
At the end of the season, removing the corms is recommended in most French regions. This operation is carried out in the autumn, after the foliage has completely yellowed and before the first significant frosts. The corms must then be cleaned, dried for 2 to 3 weeks in a ventilated, frost-free place, then stored in a dark, dry, well-ventilated place at a temperature between 5°C and 10°C .
Multiplication techniques and stock management
Gladiolus propagation for professional production is primarily vegetative, primarily through cormules (bulbils) that form around the mother corm. A corm can produce 2 to 5 viable cormules per season , which will then take 1 to 2 years to reach flowering size. Simple division of the main corm is not a common method of propagation, as it does not divide naturally. Sowing is rarely used in commercial production because it generates genetic heterogeneity and a long cycle ( 3 to 5 years for flowering ). In vitro propagation is used for large-scale production or varietal improvement, allowing very rapid multiplication rates.
To maintain vigor and quality of production, it is recommended to divide the bulbs every two to three years . Autumn, after the leaves have turned yellow, is the ideal time for this operation. Large bulbs ( over 4 cm ) are essential for obtaining taller stems and abundant flowering.
Business applications and career opportunities
Production of cut flowers
Gladiolus varieties offer a wide variety, varying in color, height, and flowering time. The classification uses codes for earliness ( E for early, L for late ) and numerical series for color groups. Specific cultivars such as 'Priscilla', 'Chocolate Ripple' , or selections such as 'Black Surprise' or 'Purple Flora' have interesting marketing characteristics.
Gladiolus is one of the most popular summer flower bulbs for cut flowers. Its main advantages are the length and rigidity of its stems ( up to 90 cm and more ), good vase life ( 8 to 10 days with proper care), and the possibility of spreading production throughout the summer. For optimal vase life, it is recommended to harvest when the two bottom flowers are in bloom , to cut the stems regularly, and to change the water.
Ornamental and landscaping uses
Beyond the cut flower, Gladiolus fits very well into landscaping. Its vertical shape allows it to structure flowerbeds and borders. Hardy varieties, such as Gladiolus byzantinus , can naturalize and return year after year with minimal maintenance, including in rockeries in mild climates. For communities and large public spaces, Gladiolus is relevant for its ease of maintenance (low water and fertilization requirements after installation), its long-lasting flowering and its strong visual impact. Some species also contribute to local biodiversity by attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies, notably Gladiolus byzantinus .
Phytosanitary management and technical adaptations
Main diseases and pests
Gladiolus plants are not without their challenges for the professional. They are susceptible to several diseases and pests. Fungal diseases such as Botrytis and Fusarium are common, especially in humid conditions. Gladiolus thrips (Thrips simplex) are the main pest, causing floral deformation, leaf streaks, and reduced corm size. Stink bugs (Lygus lineolaris) can also damage young leaves and stems. Viral and bacterial diseases, as well as nematodes, can also affect crops.
Preventive measures and prophylaxis
To prevent these problems, the use of certified corms , strict crop rotation (minimum 6 years without Gladiolus or related species on the same plot), good soil drainage, adequate plant spacing ( 10 to 15 cm minimum ), and removal of diseased plants are essential technical measures. Treatment of corms before storage or planting (e.g., with hot water or insecticide/fungicide products) is a recommended practice.
Phytosanitary diagnosis and monitoring
Assessing plant health relies on observing visual indicators. Bright, firm green foliage , robust flower stems , and dense, unblemished corms are signs of good health. Premature yellowing, leaf spots, floral deformations, or a soft corm may indicate deficiencies (nitrogen, potassium, phosphorus), water stress (withered leaves), or the presence of diseases or pests (brown spots for diseases, silvery appearance for thrips). Overwatering, in particular, promotes fungal diseases.
Although some wild species may be under protected status (such as Gladiolus dubius in the Mediterranean area), commercial horticultural varieties generally do not present any significant toxicity risks to humans or livestock according to sources, although caution should always be exercised when handling Iridaceae corms.
Climate adaptations and forcing techniques
In the face of climatic hazards, adaptations are necessary. In the event of prolonged drought, deep and regular watering (moistening the soil to a depth of 15 to 20 cm ) is necessary. Mulching ( 5 to 7.5 cm ) helps to retain soil moisture. In very harsh winters, pulling up and storing the corms (at 5-15°C, in a dry place ) is the best protection. Thick mulch ( ≥10 cm ) may offer limited protection for more hardy varieties left in place.
Gladiolus is also suitable for forcing in a greenhouse or pot , a technique particularly relevant for off-season production. Planting in a pot or container ( minimum 20 cm deep ) in a draining substrate (potting soil, compost, sand) is recommended. Under cover, controlled conditions ( 18-22°C during the day, not less than 10°C at night, 60-70% relative humidity ) allow flowering to be brought forward. Staking is essential when growing above ground or under cover.
A period of vernalization (exposure to cold) is necessary to induce optimal flowering. Storing the corms at 5°C for 3 to 6 weeks before planting accelerates flowering by 11 to 20 days .
To summarize: Our Gladiolus Bulbs
The Gladiolus bulbs offered by Floriverse combine all the qualities necessary for successful professional cultivation: vigor, floridity, uniformity and adaptability. As a specialist wholesale supplier of Flower Bulbs , we only select certified corms, capable of meeting the requirements of the French cut flower market. Thanks to rigorous calibration (8/10 and 6/+), complete traceability and accessible technical support, you can buy Gladiolus Bulbs with complete confidence.
Gladiolus lends itself perfectly to staggered cultivation strategies, both in open fields and forcing under cover. Its sequential flowering, post-harvest resistance and color diversity make it a versatile species, suitable for short supply chains as well as specialized markets. With the rise of the untreated and organic segment, Floriverse, your specialist wholesale supplier of Flower Bulbs , supports you in diversifying your supplies while maintaining demanding technical standards.
As a grower or horticultural entrepreneur, are you looking to buy reliable, profitable, and well-supported Gladiolus bulbs ? Choose Floriverse: personalized orders, decreasing prices based on volume, fast delivery throughout France, and dedicated technical support. Floriverse remains your specialist wholesale supplier of flower bulbs to build a more efficient, sustainable, and local industry. At any time of the season, you can buy Gladiolus bulbs under the best professional conditions.
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