Consulta Plantas

Care of the rhizomatous plant Iris unguicularis or Algerian iris

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 unguicularis, Iris pseudacorus, Iris orientalis, Iris germanica, Iris foetidissima, Iris pumila, Iris xiphium, Iris lutescens, Iris aucheri.

Common names: Algerian iris, Winter iris. This species is native to Greece, Turkey, Western Syria, and Tunisia.

They are rhizomatous plants that reach 50 cm (19.68 feet) in height. The leaves are long, narrow, curved and evergreen. They produce abundant and attractive 8 cm (3.14") blue-violet flowers with yellow spots. They bloom in winter and spring.

Algerian iris is used on rockeries, slopes and in areas of the garden that are difficult to access; it's also used as cut flowers.

Iris unguicularis can grow in full sun, semi-shade and shade exposures. It resists frost down to -6 ºC (21.2 ºF).

Winter iris can grow in clay, calcareous and poor soils.

Algerian iris does not need irrigation; it can grow with the little Mediterranean rains.

Iris unguicularis does not need pruning or fertilizers.

Winter iris is an easy to grow plant and resistant to pests and diseases; it's sensitive to excess moisture.

Algerian iris propagates by division in late summer.

Images of the rhizomatous plant Iris unguicularis or Algerian iris