Painted lady

Flags (Eng.), Bergpypie (Afr.)

This species of Gladiolus has one of the widests distributions in winter rainfall areas. The flowers are highly valued as it is pleasantly fragranced and is a great cut flower for floral arrangements. This species is a must have for any garden enthusiast as it is very easy to grow.

Planning

Difficulty

Easy

Flowering time

Summer, Spring

Fruiting time

Summer

Harvesting

Harvest flowers in spring and early summer for floral arrangements. Harvest seeds when ripe and store them in a dry spot.

Propagation

Seed

Sow seeds in autumn months before the first rains at a depth of 1 cm and space them 15 cm apart.

Division

Divide the offsets during the dormant period and plant to a depth of 3 cm and space them 15 cm apart.

Special features

Attracts useful insects

Attracts specific long tongued flies.

Drought resistant

This plant requires very little water.

Pot plant

This species is a great pot plant adding colour to any sunny spot.

Attractive flowers

Attractive tubular flowers grown on continuous flower stalks, usually with pretty markings on the bottom three petals.

Geography

Origin

From Sub-Saharan Africa to Southern Africa, Western Cape.

Natural climate

Temperate

Environment

Light

Full Sun

Soil moisture

Dry

Soil type

Loam, Sand

Soil PH preference

Acid, Neutral

Frost hardiness

Half-Hardy

Uses

Personality

Family

Iridaceae

Flower colour

Pink, rose, mauve, red, purple, white, cream

Scent

Mild

Problems

Botrytis fungus tends to affect Gladiolus when planted in poorly drained soils as they prefer sandy soils with great drainage. To prevent or cure infected bulbs, coat bulbs with fungicide powder before planting.

Botrytis

Botrytis cinerea