Iris foetidissima, commonly known as the Stinking Iris, is a perennial flowering plant native to Europe and North Africa. It is an eye-catching plant with its tall stems and bright purple-blue flowers. The Stinking Iris is a popular choice for gardens and can be grown in a variety of climates.
Its unique scent and attractive blooms make it a great addition to any garden. In this blog, we will discuss the characteristics of the Stinking Iris, its cultivation requirements, and its benefits to the garden.
With its hardy nature and attractive blooms, the Stinking Iris is a great choice for the garden!
Characteristics of iris foetidissima
Iris foetidissima, otherwise known as “Stinking Iris” probably earned its nickname from its strong lemony aroma popularly likened to that of stinky cheese. While this unpleasant smell may be off-putting, this vibrant colored iris is a popular choice for gardens, especially in the UK, where it performs excellently in various soil types and weather conditions.
This hardy perennial is native to the Mediterranean, and is easily recognizable by its large, stiff, grey-green foliage. The eye-catching bright yellow and orange flowers, which bloom in late-summer, are around three to four inches wide and have a distinctive scent of citrus lemon. But this variety of iris is more than just a pretty face; it is incredibly easy to grow and a great addition to your garden due to its drought and wind and salt tolerance.
This reliable option is also pest and disease resistant, which makes it an ideal choice for a trouble-free display, especially if you are looking for a low maintenance option for your outdoor space. In addition, the iris foetidissima also offers great protection for birds and other wildlife, providing shelter and nesting sites that other plants may not offer. This plant, as well as its counterparts, are edible, with leaves and rhizomes often used as a seasoning agent in dishes.
Here in the UK, the iris foetidissima is often found growing in sunny pastures and rocky areas, and can be a great option for those looking to add a bit of visual interest to their patio or garden. Whether you are looking for a reliable plant for sunny borders or a hardy option for sheltered terraces and walls, this vibrant flower is sure to impress.
Growing iris foetidissima
As a UK garden expert I am here to discuss the delightful Iris foetidissima, otherwise known as the stinking iris. It’s a stunning flower for any garden, it is easy to care for and it’s full of color.
Here I will provide the tips and tricks of how to successfully add this flower to your garden. Iris foetidissima is an evergreen, rhizomatous perennial, with bright green, narrow, pointed leaves that are about 15-30cm in length. When the flower reaches its peak bloom, usually during summer, it produces either a single, or a spike of red, yellow, or purple flowers.
It has a very unique smell, which gives it its name, the Stinking Iris, though some say the smell is similar to that of sweet peas, so it really depends on who you ask!One of the easiest ways to grow Iris foetidissima is to plant it in a sunny site, preferably in well-drained soil. It prefers to have slightly acidic soil and a pH of
5-
For best results, aim to have a soil depth of approximately 20-30cm. When adding the Iris to your garden, it is important to remember that it does need to be watered frequently, ensuring the root system is always kept moist. To encourage strong growth, use a fertilizer with a high nitrogen content.
To maintain your Iris foetidissima once it has been planted, you will need to prune it in the late winter or early spring. To do this, cut back any stopped flowers and dead leaves.
This will help to maintain the overall shape of the flower and keep the growth healthy. As the flower ages, it will get fuller and bigger, so it can sometimes need to be divided if it is taking up too much space. You should also remove any dead leaves, as these can host pests or diseases. Iris foetidissima is an absolute must for any garden enthusiast. With a little dedication, you can enjoy the sweet smell and stunning colours that this flower will bring to your garden.
Uses of iris foetidissima
As a UK garden expert I can confirm that the Iris foetidissima, or stinking iris, is a species of flowering plant which is native to the Mediterranean area as well as Atlantic coasts, but has been planted in the UK for centuries thanks to its interesting aroma, hardiness and diverse uses. With bright green foliage and blooming from May until June with sprays of small cream and yellow flowers, this beautiful plant produces a unique odour that is caused by the presence of an acid known as iridin.
Many people find it pleasant but, as the name might suggest, others find it quite unpleasant. Thanks to its hardy nature, the Iris foetidissima is particularly useful as an ornamental plant. Not only can it be used for decorative purposes, but it can also be used to attract beneficial insects to the garden, or even to help repel undesirable ones.
Additionally, the leaves of the plant have been traditionally used as a medicinal herb for centuries, most notably to help treat ailments of the respiratory system. All in all, the Iris foetidissima is more than just a pretty face – it’s an incredibly useful plant both medicinally and ornamentally.
Interesting facts about iris foetidissima
As a UK garden expert I am delighted to introduce you to Iris foetidissima, the smallest of our native Iris species. This delightful little plant is an evergreen, with sword-shaped leaves, and stunning, yellowy-orange flowers which appear from late spring until summer. Iris foetidissima goes by many common names, including Gladwin iris, Stinking iris, Roast beef plant and Garlicky iris.
This latter epithet is based on the distinctive garlicky odour that is emitted from the foliage when crushed. This makes it a versatile addition to a herb garden.
Iris foetidissima is a real joy to cultivate, as it is a very hardy species that can survive temperatures as low as -15C. It is also drought-tolerant and will even tolerate salty winds, making it perfect for coastal gardens.
This resilient and low-maintenance little gem will bring a splash of colour to any garden in which it is planted. So, why not introduce Iris foetidissima to your outdoor space and experience its many benefits? Not only will it add a bright and cheery display, but also a lovely garlicky fragrance – but be warned that it may be too pungent for some noses!
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Bottom Line
Iris foetidissima, also known as stinking iris, is a species of flowering plant native to Europe, North Africa, and Western Asia. It is a hardy perennial with a clump-forming habit, and its leaves are greyish-green and lance-shaped.
It produces fragrant yellow flowers in the summer, followed by clusters of three-lobed seed capsules. The plant is an attractive addition to any garden, but it should be planted in a sunny, sheltered spot and well-drained soil. It is easy to care for and can be propagated from seed or division.
FAQ
What is the scientific name of Iris foetidissima?
The scientific name of Iris foetidissima is Iris foetidissima L.
Where is Iris foetidissima native to?
Iris foetidissima is native to the Mediterranean region, including parts of Spain, Portugal, Italy, and North Africa.
What are the common names for Iris foetidissima?
Common names for Iris foetidissima include stinking iris, Gladwin iris, and rosy-garlic.
What are the characteristics of Iris foetidissima?
Iris foetidissima is a species of flowering plant in the Iridaceae family. It is a rhizomatous perennial herb with yellow-green flowers and a strong, onion-like scent. It has narrow, linear leaves and a long flowering stem. The flowers are yellow-green and have three petals and three sepals. The fruit is a three-celled capsule. It is native to Europe, North Africa, and western Asia.
How is Iris foetidissima used in traditional medicine?
Iris foetidissima has been used in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and diuretic properties. It has been used to treat a variety of ailments, including skin conditions, digestive issues, and respiratory problems. It has also been used to treat fever, headaches, and to reduce swelling.
What are the benefits of planting Iris foetidissima in the garden?
The benefits of planting Iris foetidissima in the garden include providing a beautiful display of foliage and flowers, attracting beneficial insects, and providing a source of food for wildlife. Additionally, the plant is drought-tolerant and can tolerate poor soil conditions, making it an ideal choice for a low-maintenance garden.
