Within the plant world there are many flowers that stand out for their beauty, and among them it is impossible not to mention the gladiolus. This plant has been and continues to be very present in gardens around the world. If you like it, you will surely be interested in knowing the meaning of gladiolus, because these flowers are appreciated for more than just their beauty.
Let's see what meaning different cultures throughout history have attributed to these plants.
The meaning of gladioli in Roman times
Roman culture is at the base of current European cultures, because the Empire spread across a large part of the continent. Perhaps for this reason, Gladioli are flowers especially valued in this region.
In Roman times, different symbolisms were assigned to this plant:
military symbolism
Name “gladiolus” comes from the Latin word “gladius”, which means sword. If you look at this plant, you will notice that its long, thin leaves resemble a sword and, for this reason, it was associated with Roman gladiators.
Use in celebrations and triumphs
It is known that The Romans used to decorate their homes and streets with gladioli when it was time to celebrate triumphs and festive events. This led to associating gladioli with symbols of victory and honor.
A way to honor warriors and remember those who had achieved important feats.
Use in religious rites and funerals
The meaning of gladioli is also related to the religious rituals and funeral ceremonies of Ancient Rome. Because the Romans believed that these flowers hadn protective properties and used them as a way to honor the gods and to remember the deceased.
Its use was quite common in festivities held in honor of Mars, God of War.
Within Roman mythology, there is a myth that gladioli grew from the tears that Venus poured out when her beloved Adonis died. Which allows us to get an idea of the importance of these plants and their flowers.
Use as personal ornament
In Rome, gladiolus flowers were used to make crowns and garlands with which people decorated their heads and bodies during celebrations and special events.
Cultivation and trade
The Romans contributed to extensive cultivation of gladioli and its expansion throughout Europe, since they were also in charge of marketing these flowers.
Meaning of gladioli today
In ancient times these plants were highly appreciated both for their beauty and for the meaning given to them. Today, gladiolus flowers continue to have important symbolism.
Strength and bravery
As we said before, the term gladiolus derives from “gladius” and associated with gladiators. It was believed then that whoever had a bouquet of these flowers would enjoy more strength and courage.
Day by day, These flowers continue to retain this meaning, so they are a good idea to give to people who are facing new challenges.
Integrity and honesty
In the language of flowers, gladioli are synonymous with sincerity, integrity and honesty. Therefore, they are understood as a show of maximum respect towards the person who receives them.
If you are thinking of giving flowers to a loved one, a bouquet of gladioli can be a good idea. way to express your support and respect.
Reincarnation and persistence of the soul
Gladioli bloom year after year and, therefore, are associated with reincarnation and the persistence of the soul. Hence, in many cultures, gladioli are a constant in bouquets and funeral wreaths.
Infidelity and betrayal
The meaning of gladioli and other flowers is greatly influenced by different cultures. While in some these flowers are synonymous with loyalty, in others They are associated with infidelity and betrayal, So giving a bouquet of gladioli is not exactly seen as a symbol of friendship.
Love at first sight
There are cultures in which the gladiolus is a symbol of instant and deep attraction. A way of telling another person that there is romantic interest in them.
Some curiosities about gladioli
Now that already we know more about the meaning that has been and is given to these flowers in different parts of the world, it is a good time to delve into some curiosities that you may not know.
- botanical family. Gladiolus are part of the Iridaceae family, which is very extensive and includes other well-known ornamental plants such as lilies and crocuses.
- Varieties and colors. It is estimated that there are about 260 varieties of gladioli, both natural and cultivated. In addition, we can find these flowers in a large number of colors including white, yellow, pink, red, purple and orange.
- Corm structures. Gladioli grow from corms, underground structures similar to bulbs, but which are not the same from a biological point of view. These structures store nutrients and energy that they then supply to the plant so it can grow.
- Great heights. Some varieties of gladiolus can have stems that exceed 1,5 meters in height.
- Use in traditional medicine. In certain cultures they believe that there are parts of this plant that have medicinal properties and use them to treat conditions such as stomach pain and diarrhea.
- Presence in art and culture. The beauty of gladioli has also been captured in art. Works by artists such as Claude Monet have immortalized these flowers.
- National flower. In Trinidad and Tobago, the gladiolus is the national flower, and is known locally as “the sword.”
- Genetic improvement. As with many plants, the gladiolus has been the subject of hybrids and genetic improvements. Resulting in varieties with greater resistance to diseases, with greater diversity of colors and with larger flowers.
Did you imagine that there were so many curious facts about the meaning of gladioli? We hope we have helped you get to know this beautiful and easy-to-care plant a little better.