Baby Gladioli Oriental Lady (Pack of 4 Bulbs)

Baby Gladioli Oriental Lady (Gladiolus nanus) Baby Gladioli Oriental Lady brings a graceful splash of mid-pink colour to Australian gardens with minimal effort. These compact, hardy corms produce gorgeous pink blooms on strong, upright stems, making them a versatile choice for garden beds, containers, and fresh-cut arrangements. Whether you are a seasoned gardener or just getting started, Oriental Lady delivers a reliable display that bridges the gap between spring bulbs and high-summer perennials. Oriental Lady belongs to the Gladiolus nanus group, commonly known as baby or cottage gladioli. Unlike their taller cousins, nanus varieties stay compact at 30 to 60 cm in height, so there is no need for staking. Each corm can produce two to three flower spikes, with up to seven dainty, funnel-shaped blooms opening along each spike. The mid-pink flowers are borne on sturdy stems surrounded by narrow, sword-shaped foliage. Once established, corms can be left in the ground year after year, only requiring lifting and dividing every four to five years. Product Highlights • Corm count: 4 per pack • Flower colour: Mid pink • Plant height: 30 to 60 cm • Bloom time: Late spring to summer (October to January in most Australian regions) • Naturalising: Yes • Sun requirements: Full sun to semi shade (minimum six hours of direct sunlight) • Soil type: Well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0 to 7.0), enriched with compost or organic matter • Frost tolerance: Half hardy Planting Instructions Plant Baby Gladioli Oriental Lady corms in autumn through to early winter in most Australian regions. Choose a position in full sun with at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. The soil should be well drained and enriched with compost or a complete fertiliser such as blood and bone before planting. Dig holes approximately 8 to 10 cm deep and space the corms 8 to 10 cm apart, placing each corm with the flat side facing down and the pointed growing tip facing up. Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil. For an extended display, stagger plantings every two to three weeks during the planting window. Baby gladioli also perform well in containers filled with a quality potting mix. Choose pots at least 20 cm deep and group several corms together for impact. Watering and Care Once shoots emerge, water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist but never waterlogged. Overwatering or poor drainage can cause corms to rot. Apply a balanced liquid fertiliser every two to three weeks during the active growing season to encourage strong stems and vibrant blooms. A layer of organic mulch around the base of the plants will help retain moisture and suppress weeds. After flowering, allow the foliage to die back naturally before tidying. This lets the corms store energy for the following season. Pruning Advice Remove spent flower spikes once all blooms have finished by cutting the stem back to the base. Leave the green foliage in place until it yellows and withers naturally, as the leaves continue to feed the corm for next season's growth. Once the foliage has dried completely, it can be gently pulled away or trimmed at ground level. If you are growing Baby Gladioli Oriental Lady as a cut flower, harvest the spike when the lowest bloom begins to open for the longest vase life. Climate Zone Guide Cool and Alpine (ACT, VIC Highlands, NSW Tablelands) Baby gladioli perform well in cool climates. Plant corms in mid to late autumn after the first cool spell. The natural cold period promotes strong root development and abundant flowering in late spring to early summer. Mulch well to protect against hard frosts. Temperate (Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth, coastal NSW) This is an ideal climate range for Oriental Lady. Plant from late autumn through early winter for blooms from late spring onward. Corms can be left in the ground to naturalise over successive seasons, rewarding gardeners with an increasing display each year. Subtropical (Brisbane, coastal QLD) Baby gladioli can be grown in subtropical areas, though results may vary. Plant in the coolest months between May and July to give corms the best chance of establishing. Choose a position with morning sun and afternoon shade to reduce heat stress. Tropical and Arid (Darwin, Far North QLD) Baby gladioli are generally not recommended for tropical climates without cold treatment before planting. Gardeners in these regions may achieve limited results by pre-chilling corms in the refrigerator for four to six weeks before planting during the cooler dry season. Important Warnings All parts of the gladiolus plant, including corms, stems, leaves, and flowers, are toxic if ingested by humans, dogs, cats, and livestock. Keep corms stored safely away from children and pets. Wear gloves when handling corms as the sap can cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals. Do not plant near vegetable gardens where accidental ingestion is a risk. If ingestion occurs, seek medical or veterinary advice immediately.