Iris foetidissima

Common Name:
Stinking Iris, Gladwyn Iris

Description:
Iris foetidissima is a hardy, evergreen perennial known for its sword-like, dark green foliage and unique seed pods rather than its flowers. It produces pale purple to yellowish flowers in late spring to early summer, which are often inconspicuous. The real ornamental value lies in its seed pods, which split open in autumn to reveal striking bright orange-red seeds that persist into winter, adding seasonal interest to the garden. Despite its name, the plant only emits an unpleasant smell when the leaves are crushed. It thrives in full sun to deep shade and is highly tolerant of dry and coastal conditions, making it ideal for difficult garden spots, such as under trees or in low-maintenance landscapes.

Form:

• Shrub - Clumping / Grass-like / Mounding

Mature Size:

• Height: 60–90cm
• Width: 30–60cm

Aspect:

• Full Sun
• Part Shade
• Full Shade

Flowering:

• Flowers in Late Spring
• Flowers in Summer

Flower Colour:

• Pale Purple
• Yellowish

Key Attributes:

• Suitable for Pots
• Drought Tolerant
• Low Maintenance
• Perennial
• Suitable for Shady Areas
• Attractive Seed Pods
• Coastal Tolerant

Toxicity:

• Toxic to humans and pets if ingested

Companion Plants:

• Hellebores
• Heuchera
• Ferns
• Liriope
• Epimedium

For more information and photos of this species, Warners Nursery has detailed information available to the public via the following link. 

Iris foetidissima