Dietes grandiflora (Fairy Iris)

Native to Eastern and Southern Africa, Dietes grandiflora (Fairy Iris) is a rhizomatous evergreen perennial with large, iris-like flowers, 4 in. across (10 cm), borne on erect, slender stalks atop clumps of long, upright, stiff, sword-like green leaves. Each waxy white flower consists of 3 outer petals adorned with a stripe of rich yellow near their base, and 3 inner segments flecked with brown at their heart. Radiating from the bloom’s center are 3 pale violet style arms. The flowers last up to 3 days but are quickly followed by new ones. Blooming in summer, in flushes that seem to occur at 2-week intervals, they are on display almost year-round in mild climates. This plant is occasionally called the “Fairy Iris” because the fragile white petals not only look like fairy wings but also have a tendency to disappear mysteriously overnight! A spectacular plant in mass plantings or in containers.

• Grows up to 3-4 ft. tall (90-120 cm) and 2-3 ft. wide (60-90 cm).
• Easy to grow, this plant performs best in full sun or part shade, in moist, well-drained soils. Best flower production occurs in full sun, but light afternoon shade is welcomed. It is fairly drought tolerant.
• No serious insect or disease problems.
• A welcomed addition to Mediterranean gardens, cottage gardens, and gravel gardens. Most spectacular when planted in large groupings where it develops a bouquet effect
• Remove seed pods to promote additional bloom. Flower stems should not be removed after flowering. Clip off any leaves that die. Self-sows freely; deadhead if you do not want volunteer seedlings next season.
• Propagate by seed at 13-15°C (55-59°F) in autumn or spring. Alternatively, propagate by division of rhizomes after flowering. Plants may be difficult to establish.