Native to southern Africa, Gladiolus carneus (Painted Lady) is a graceful cormous perennial boasting loose spikes of 3-12 widely funnel-shaped, soft pink flowers in late spring. Large, each elegant blossom, up to 2.5 in. long (6 cm), is adorned with deep carmine spade-shaped markings on its lower petals. Blooming for up to 4 weeks, they are borne atop arching stems surrounded by sword-shaped leaves. Tough and reliable, Painted Lady Gladiolus is perfect for rock gardens, dry gardens or containers. Very ornamental and a good cut flower.

• Grows up to 8-20 in. tall (20-50 cm) and 3-4 in. wide (7-10 cm). A good naturalizer, this summer dormant gladiolus will spread by cormlets to create a lovely colony.
• Best flowering occurs in full sun in well-drained soils. Drought tolerant, this plant copes well in hot, dry conditions, but does not resent summer watering.
• Divide every four or five years.
• Winter-growing gladiolus species should be planted in the fall.
• Toxic to dogs, toxic to cats, toxic to horses.