My neighbour has this beautiful plant growing next to her house, it's about 3' tall with stems that look like Gladiola stems. Anyone know what this is, and is it winter hardy in our area? (Unsure of what zone I'm in, so many websites, and they all say different zones)
Sure it isnt a gladiolus type? Many species and cultivars exist. Is that the flower in full bloom? Harry
That's it, maybe not quite 3' then... Might have been 2'. Thanx so much!! Any idea if it's winter hardy? My neighbour has hers planted against her house so it's protected from winter frost, just as a Canna would be fine against a house in the winter in our area. I have a friend who never pulls her Cannas and Glads out, and they come back beautifully every year, but they too are planted against her house. The reason I ask is because if I get some off of her I'd plant it in my garden unprotected from winter coldness & frost.
Although fairly common here these days it is true that Puget Lowland and outer coast is considered on the borderline of hardienss for this, if you are far enough inland to be in the next zone you will definitely want to give it a protected location. Cultural directions, including transplanting are in Sunset WESTERN GARDEN BOOK.