This bulb dies back after flowering each year and enters a period of rest ahead of regrowth the following season.

• Position: full sun
• Soil: moist, well-drained soil
• Rate of growth: average
• Flowering period: July to September
• Hardiness: half hardy (will need winter protection)
• Bulb size: 12/14
  
  Deep orange-brown flowers with dark burgundy edges are the hallmark of this exotic-looking gladiolus. Rising above sword-shaped, dark grey-green leaves, the sturdy and erect flowering spikes appear over a fortnight in summer to grace the cottage garden, cut-flower vase, or greenhouse.
  
  
• Garden care: Plant corms 10-15cm (4-6in) deep and 25cm apart on a bed of sharp sand to aid drainage. In frost-prone areas, lift them when the leaves turn yellow-brown and store the corms in a dry, frost-free place over winter.