As a preliminary to genetic studies in which one of us will be concerned in collaboration with Prof. K. Hrubý, the pigments of the flower petals of Gladiolus gandavensis (large-flowered florist's gladioli) have been re-examined. The different varieties contain more or less of an anthoxanthin which appears to be a glycoside of apigenin or a simple derivative; this functions as a strong co-pigment. An acid aqueous extract of the yellow ‘Hofmann's Glory’ added to synthetic peonin or malvin makes the red solutions much bluer, and they then simulate the appropriate flower extracts. The petals do not contain a carotenoid soluble in benzene or ethyl acetate.