bulb corm tuber

Painted Lady Gladiolus

Gladiolus carneus

The Story

Plant Bio

Gladiolus carneus is known for its tall spikes of beautiful pink flowers.

This species has a unique floral color and is favored for use in summer bouquets.

Uses & Benefits:

Bright and showy flowers add vibrant color to garden beds and cut flower arrangements.

Easy to grow with minimal maintenance, ideal for summer gardens.

Provides nectar for pollinators like bees and butterflies.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Bulb Corm Tuber

Height

24 inches

Width

6 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

7, 8, 9, 10

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial in suitable zones

Native To

South Africa

Toxicity

Toxic to pets if ingested

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck corms 4-6 inches deep in well-drained soil in spring.
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not soggy during growing season.
Fertilize every 2-3 weeks with a balanced fertilizer for vibrant blooms.
Stake tall stems to prevent wind damage as they grow.
Remove spent flowers to encourage more blooms and tidy appearance.
Lift corms after foliage dies back for storage in winter in colder zones.

Pro Tip

Plant corms in full sun for the best flower production and vibrant colors.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water consistently during active growth 🌱
Apply balanced fertilizer monthly during blooming season
Stake tall flower stems for support

Don't

Overwater to avoid bulb rot ❌
Plant too deep or too shallow
Neglect staking in windy areas

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Deadhead
Fertilize
Harvest
Lift Store
Plant
Stake

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Colorful border in flower bedsDramatic focal point in gardenCut flower arrangements

Companion Plants

Marigolds Petunias Salvia Cosmos Zinnia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Painted Lady Gladiolus questions

What zones can Painted Lady Gladiolus grow in?

Painted Lady Gladiolus is hardy in USDA Zones 7–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Painted Lady Gladiolus deer resistant?

Yes — Painted Lady Gladiolus is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Painted Lady Gladiolus bloom?

Painted Lady Gladiolus typically blooms in late spring to early summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Painted Lady Gladiolus need full sun?

Painted Lady Gladiolus does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Painted Lady Gladiolus drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Painted Lady Gladiolus handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.