Overview

Gladiolus carmineus is a upright bulbs in the genus Gladiolus, part of the Iridaceae family, with green foliage. Gladiolus carmineus grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include cut flowers, borders and containers.

About

Gladiolus carmineus is a perennial plant in the family Iridaceae. It is native to the Western Cape and occurs from Cape Hangklip to Cape Infanta. The plant has an occurrence area of less than 20 square kilometres (7.7 sq mi) and is threatened by development on the coast. Grow it in full sun and loam soil. In UK gardens it is hardy in most of the UK (RHS H5). It works well for cut flowers, borders and containers. It tolerates neutral soils, well-drained conditions and south-facing, west-facing and east-facing aspects. Plant corms 10-15cm deep in fertile, well-drained soil in full sun after last frost. Stake tall varieties.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0Gladiolus carmineus

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Gladiolus

Sunlight
Full sun
Soil type
Loam
Soil pH
Neutral
Soil moisture
Well-drained
Aspect
South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
Exposure
Sheltered
UK hardiness
H5

Plant details

Gladiolus carmineus size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
Bulbs
Habit
Upright
Foliage
Green
Suggested uses
Cut flowers, Borders, Containers

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Gladiolus carmineus

Propagation
Division, Cormlets
Pest resistance
Aphids, Slugs
Disease resistance
Botrytis, Fusarium bulb rot, Fungal leaf spot

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Gladiolus carmineus?

Gladiolus carmineus prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Gladiolus carmineus need?

Gladiolus carmineus grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.

Is Gladiolus carmineus hardy in the UK?

Gladiolus carmineus has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.

How do I propagate Gladiolus carmineus?

Division, Cormlets.

More in the Gladiolus genus

Browse all Gladiolus