Painted lady gladiolus (Gladiolus comptonii)
Care, watering, light and tips for Painted lady gladiolus on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Iridaceae
- Difficulty: Moderate care
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Painted lady gladiolus
Gladiolus comptonii, known as Compton's Gladiolus, is a perennial gladiolus species native to South Africa, prized for its striking spikes of pink to mauve flowers, often with darker markings. Its elegant tubular blooms make it ideal for garden borders, rockeries, or as a cut flower in arrangements. It adds a touch of grace and exotic color to any landscape.
Native range
South Africa
Care tips
It requires full sun for optimal flowering and well-drained, preferably sandy soil. Water regularly during active growth and flowering, reducing watering once the foliage begins to die back. A common mistake is overwatering, which can lead to corm rot; ensure the soil dries out slightly between waterings. Protect corms from frost in colder climates.
How to save a dying Painted lady gladiolus
- Warning signs
- Yellowish or brown, soft leaves; weak or drooping stems; lack of bloom or premature wilting flowers.
- First aid
- Check watering (moist but not soggy soil), place in indirect light with good ventilation, and lightly fertilize.
- What kills it
- Overwatering (rots the corm) or total lack of light. Also asphyxiation from poor ventilation.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if the corm is not completely rotted. Cut damaged parts and repot in fresh substrate.