Gladiolus longicollis, commonly known as the honey flower, is a species of gladiolus native to the Cape Provinces of South Africa. This cormous perennial is recognized for its distinctive floral fragrance and its role within its native ecosystem. The plant typically grows to a height of 30 to 60 centimeters, forming a clump of erect, slender stems. Its leaves are linear to narrowly lanceolate, typically measuring between 20 and 40 centimeters in length and 0.5 to 1.5 centimeters in width. They are arranged in a basal fan. The most striking feature of Gladiolus longicollis is its inflorescence, which bears a sparse arrangement of two to five flowers. Each flower is zygomorphic, meaning it has bilateral symmetry, and is characterized by its long, slender tube, which can measure up to 10 centimeters. The perianth segments are typically pale pink to creamy white, often with darker pink or purplish streaks or markings. The flowers are notably fragrant, emitting a sweet, honey-like scent, particularly in the evening, which is a key characteristic contributing to its common name. The fruit is a capsule containing numerous small, globose seeds. Gladiolus longicollis is found in fynbos and renosterveld vegetation types, often growing in sandy or loamy soils in well-drained locations. It thrives in areas that experience winter rainfall and dry summers. While it is adapted to its native Mediterranean-like climate, it can be cultivated in similar conditions elsewhere, requiring full sun and protection from frost. Propagation is typically achieved through corms or seeds. The honey flower plays a role in pollination ecology, with its fragrance and floral structure adapted to attract specific pollinators, likely moths, which are active at dusk and during the night. Its presence contributes to the biodiversity of the South African flora. Ornamentally, it is valued for its delicate beauty and its captivating scent, making it a desirable addition to gardens that can replicate its preferred growing conditions. There is no widespread agricultural, medicinal, or culinary use documented for this species. An interesting adaptation of Gladiolus longicollis is its nocturnal fragrance, a trait common in plants pollinated by nocturnal insects. This scent release is thought to maximize pollinator attraction during the period when these pollinators are most active. The long floral tube also suggests a co-evolutionary relationship with a specific pollinator possessing a correspondingly long proboscis.