Handy cures
The flower, which originates from Africa, was used in the past for food and as an emollient. Roasted gladiolus bulbs had a chestnut-like flavour and dried and ground bulbs were mixed with goat’s milk: a couple of sips of this cured stomach cramps. This mixture was also rubbed straight onto splinters as a salve.
To the death or the gladioli
In Roman times, gladiatorial combat was a public entertainment. It was their equivalent of watching TV. Two swordsmen fought until one was killed and the winner was showered with gladioli; it was all or nothing. In some countries the gladiolus still symbolises victory.
