Gladiolus quadrangulus

Native to the southwestern Cape of South Africa, Gladiolus quadrangulus grows in sandy soil in seasonally wet, poorly drained and sometimes brackish habitats, now largely destroyed, making its long-term survival in the wild uncertain. This cormous Iridaceae bears pale pink, mauve or white flowers veined in a darker shade, with a shape reminiscent of an Ixia rather than a typical Gladiolus; notably, it produces no nectar. Flowering occurs from late winter into spring. In cultivation it behaves like a typical winter-growing Gladiolus, requiring well-drained soil and a sunny position.