Care of the rhizomatous plant Iris orientalis or Turkish iris |
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The genus Iris, family Iridaceae, comprises 300 species of rhizomatous and bulbous plants native to temperate regions of Europe, Asia, Africa and America. Some species are: Iris orientalis, Iris germanica, Iris foetidissima, Iris pseudacorus, Iris unguicularis, Iris pumila, Iris aucheri, Iris xiphium, Iris lutescens. Common names: Turkish iris, Yellow banded iris. This species is native to the eastern Mediterranean and the Middle East. They are rhizomatous herbaceous plants with long erect sword-shaped leaves 1 meter (39.37") in length. The showy and fragrant flowers are white with yellow tones. They bloom from mid-spring to early summer; they may not flower the first year. Produces elliptical fruits. They are used to form groups, in rockeries and borders. They are very appreciated for cut flowers. Iris orientalis can grow in full sun or semi-shade exposure. They resist frost down to -4 ºC (24.8 ºF). They prefer calcareous soils but can grow in well-drained soil with a little organic matter. The rhizomes are planted in late summer. Water moderately, waiting for the substrate to dry. They resist several days of drought. Fertilize with compost in late winter. Prune flowers and withered leaves after flowering. They are plants resistant to the usual pests but sensitive to excess humidity. They propagate from seeds sown in spring or autumn and by division of the rhizome in late summer. |
Images of the rhizomatous plant Iris orientalis or Turkish iris |
 Iris orientalis  Iris orientalis  Iris orientalis |