Flower, what is it?

That is a Gladioli. Trust me, I was a florist.

Gladioli? IANAB(otanist)

Thanks flowergirl, you rock!

Its the the seed-bearing part of a plant, consisting of reproductive organs (stamens and carpels) that are typically surrounded by a brightly coloured corolla (petals) and a green calyx (sepals).

But thats not important right now.

<p>As described, I’ve got one in my garden that’s appeared apparently from nowhere. But then, my garden has cowslips growing everywhere, and they started off with one solitary plant, so maybe I can look forward to an increasingly abundant display in the future.</p>

Gladiolus. And a nice one too.

<p>As described, I’ve got one in my garden that’s appeared apparently from nowhere. But then, my garden has cowslips growing everywhere, and they started off with one solitary plant, so maybe I can look forward to an increasingly abundant display in the future.</p>

From memory, the after a few years you get new shoots at the base where the corms/bulbs/whatever divide. Mine certainly don't seed with any particular vigour.

They used to grow in our old garden, they were a 'pain' :o). Now I grow wild things and flowers that are bee friendly.