Gladiolus is the largest genus in the Iridaceae family with around 255 species. They are perennial bulbous flowering plants, sometimes called Sword lilies, but usually by its generic name, Gladiolus. It has been studied by taxonomists and now includes the genera Acidanthera, Homoglossum, Anomalesia and Oenostachys. The geographic range includes Africa, Madagascar, Europe, and the Middle East. They are treasured the world over for their beautiful, showy flowers which grow on tall spikes. These plants are often planted in cut flower gardens or in the back along the border, as they grow 60cm to 1.8 m tall. They make excellent cut flowers and are easily grown in raised garden beds and rockeries. Most Gladioli do equally well in pots. Gladioli are the flowers associated with a fortieth wedding anniversary.

Gladiolus pardalinus is a rare South African endemic species from the Limpopo and Mpumalanga Provinces from Groblersdal to Modimolle. It is usually encountered in Savanah bushveld, among dolerite outcrops on low hills and plains at altitudes of 1200 meters to 1500 meters. It grows to 40cm tall and in spring it bears spikes of pale yellow flowers that are speckled with red markings.