The term 'showy flowers, for short' can be summarized by two crossword solutions: GLADS (5 letters) and MUMS (4 letters). GLADS are a type of flower that is also known as Gladiolus, which is a genus of perennial cormous flowering plants in the iris family. They are known for their tall, showy blooms that come in a variety of colors. MUMS, or Chrysanthemums, are another type of showy flower that are popularly used in gardens and as cut flowers. They come in a wide range of colors and sizes, and are known for their long-lasting blooms.