Iris unguicularis (Algerian Iris)

Iris unguicularis (Algerian Iris) is a fabulous iris because of its bloom time. Flowering from late fall to early spring, when so few other plants burst from the ground, this Winter Iris features sweetly scented flowers, lavender to deep violet, 2-3 in. wide (5-8 cm). The standards display brownish spotted shafts, while the falls are beautifully marked with white and deep yellow at their base. They rise atop a dense clump of grassy foliage of dark green, narrow, tough leaves. Native to the dry Mediterranean climate, this vigorous evergreen rhizomatous perennial also makes excellent cut flowers.

• Grows in clumps up to 12-18 in tall (30-45 cm) and wide.
• Easily grown in dry, neutral to slightly alkaline, well-drained soils in full sun. Drought tolerant, but do not let your Algerian Iris dry out completely. It needs a bit of dampness underground within reach of its roots.
• Stunning in beds, borders, wall-side borders, banks and slopes, or containers. Great in floral arrangements thanks to the quality of its fresh cut flowers, too.
• Perfect for cottage gardens, city gardens, or coastal gardens. Ideal at the base of a sunny wall.
• Deer and rabbit resistant, but slugs and snails may be a problem
• Cut back after flowering. Propagate by division from midsummer to early fall. Please note that this plant resents being disturbed.
• All parts may cause discomfort if ingested. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling.
• Toxic to dogs, toxic to cats, toxic to horses.
• ‘Mary Barnard’ – one of the best with rich violet flowers. It is a very strong grower that blooms its heart out. Award of Garden Merit
• ‘Walter Butt’ – very large pale silver orchid flowers.
• ‘Alba’ – pure white flowers