Gladiolus primulinus 'Atom' is one of the most vibrant of any gladiolus cultivar, with its sizzling deep orange-red flowers. Each petal possesses a fine silvery white margin, which serves to exaggerate the petal edge, giving a lovely overall effect. The flowers are carried on short stems too, making them less liable to wind damage—this variety does not generally require staking.

When we think of gladiolus, we think of lifting the corms in autumn, to protect them from frost over winter. This is not necessary for Gladiolus 'Atom'—which is hardy in most parts of the UK. Simply mulch over the soil in late autumn, and new shoots will appear again the following spring.

This dazzling gladiolus will add a touch of class to your perennial border. It likes a spot in full sun, and a well-drained soil. Oh, and as if this is not enough—Gladiolus 'Atom' makes an exceptional cut flower. Cut the spikes as soon as the bottom flower on the spike has opened. Most of the remaining blooms will open when the spike is brought indoors and placed in water.