This is evident in work that deliberately departs from the standard approach. By working with cultivars that have a stronger structure and more layering in the petals, the character of the flower shifts. The ruffled edges and the volume create a different look, causing the flower to visually break away from the classic silhouette.
This prompted Madita to reexamine the gladiolus. By waiting until a large portion of the flowers have fully opened, the ratio between the flower and the stem changes. The stem becomes less of a purely structural element and takes on a role of its own in the composition, both linear and compact.
A Different Rhythm
New possibilities are also emerging in terms of technique. By splitting the stems and removing parts of the green tip, the material takes on a different rhythm and a more compact character. Furthermore, the gladiolus appears to be less dependent on water processing than is often assumed. Even when processed dry, the flower retains sufficient strength, which opens up possibilities for applications such as floral arrangements for weddings.
However, their relatively long vase life does require careful timing. The flower develops gradually and only reaches its full potential at a later stage. When fully open, some cultivars have a visual impact comparable to that of large-flowered roses. This makes it worthwhile to plan more strategically and not simply use the flower as a filler.
Wide Selection of Gladiolus (
) The varieties used—“Zamora,” “Pink Lightning,” and “Cera Corsage”—demonstrate just how diverse the current selection is, both in color and form. This shifts the gladiolus from a seasonal choice to a more consciously selected design material. This development is linked to breeding and specialization among growers, who are increasingly focusing on distinctiveness in form and appearance. It is not volume, but character and versatility that are becoming the guiding principles. For designers, this means a broader foundation to work with and greater freedom of interpretation.
The gladiolus, therefore, does not so much call for a new technique as it does for a different way of looking at it. Once the flower is no longer viewed through the lens of fixed assumptions, space opens up for applications that previously remained out of sight.
Floral designer: Madita, Grace and Flowers
Product: gladiolus (Flamenco series)
Varieties: ‘Zamora’, ‘Pink Lightning’, ‘Cera Corsage’
Season: starting in August
