August birth flower · Gladiolus
Gladiolus meaning & symbolism
The gladiolus stands for strength of character, integrity and remembrance. Here's what each color means, where the flower comes from, and how to use it.
Gladiolus color meanings
- Red: passion and love
- Pink: compassion
- White: innocence
- Purple: grace and charm
- Yellow: cheerfulness
History & folklore
Gladiolus comes from the Latin gladius, "sword," after its blade-shaped leaves. The flower was linked with Roman gladiators, who supposedly wore the corms as amulets. It is also the traditional flower for 40th wedding anniversaries.
In birth flower charts it's paired with the poppy.
Fun facts
- Each stem can carry 12 to 20 blooms that open from the bottom up.
- Gladioli are native to South Africa and the Mediterranean.
As a tattoo
Gladiolus is a dramatic vertical design. Its sword-like leaves and stacked blooms look striking down the spine, on a forearm or along the ribs. See more August birth flower tattoo ideas.
August birth flower August birthstone
Gladiolus gifts
Gladiolus necklaces on Amazon →Gladiolus botanical prints on Amazon →We may earn a commission on purchases, at no extra cost to you. Disclosure.
Questions, answered
What does a gladiolus symbolize?
The gladiolus symbolizes strength of character, integrity and remembrance.
What month is the gladiolus birth flower?
Gladiolus is a birth flower for August.
What do gladiolus colors mean?
Red: passion and love; Pink: compassion; White: innocence; Purple: grace and charm; Yellow: cheerfulness.
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