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Key characteristics

Family: Iridaceae
Height: 24 to 36 inches
Width: 12 to 18 inches
Flower color: Pale pink to orange with darker markings
Foliage color: Green, sword-like leaves
Bloom time: Late summer to early fall
Light: Full sun
Water: Moderate
Maintenance: Low; may need staking, lift corms in colder climates
Growing zone: USDA zones 7 to 10
Wildlife: Attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds

Perennials

Gladiolus oppositiflorus

Transkei Gladiolus

Gladiolus oppositiflorus is a graceful bulbous perennial known for its elegant, funnel-shaped flowers that bloom in shades of pale pink to soft orange. The flowers appear in dense, vertical spikes from late summer into early fall, creating a dramatic display in the garden. Each blossom is delicately marked with darker streaks, adding depth and interest to the floral arrangement.

Native to southern Africa, particularly in regions of South Africa, Gladiolus oppositiflorus thrives in warm climates and brings an exotic flair to borders and cut flower arrangements. Its late-season bloom makes it a valuable addition to extend garden color into autumn.

Light

Full sun

Water

Moderate

Bloom time

Late summer to early fall

Find this plant

Works well in

Borders
Sun Gardens
Pollinator Gardens
Hummingbird Gardens
Cut Flower Gardens

Companion plants

Garden phlox · Black-eyed Susans · Daylilies · Lavender · Coreopsis · Russian sage

Design tip

Late flowers extend the season, so set it behind or beside plants that finish in midsummer. In full sun it holds its shape best, and grouping several together keeps the color strong enough to be seen from across the garden.