Stinking Iris

(Iris foetidissima)

Stinking Iris (Iris foetidissima)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Iris foetidissima, commonly known as Stinking Iris, is an evergreen perennial herb native to open woodlands, shady banks, and coastal areas in Western Europe. It typically grows to a height and width of 1-2 feet. The plant is characterized by its glossy green leaves and dull purple flowers with yellow or orange marks, which bloom in late spring to early summer. Although the flowers are not particularly showy and are short-lived, they are followed by bright orange-red seeds that persist into winter, providing visual interest. The seeds are held in pods that split open, making them quite ornamental.

Stinking Iris is valued for its ability to thrive in shady conditions and for the striking appearance of its seed pods in the fall and winter. It is often used in woodland gardens, shaded borders, and underplanting beneath trees and shrubs. It is tolerant of a range of soil types, provided they are well-drained, and can handle dry shade once established. ’Variegata’ is a popular cultivar with variegated foliage that adds an extra layer of interest to the garden. Care should be taken as the plant can spread readily by seed and may become invasive in some areas.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 1-2 feet
  • Width: 1-1.5 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Purple
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Slow, Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Groundcover, Hummingbird Garden, Rabbit Resistant, Rock Garden, Salt Tolerant, Showy Flowers, Street Planting, Water Garden

Natural Habitat

native to open woodlands, shady banks, and coastal areas in Western Europe

Other Names

Common Names: Gladdon, , Roast-Beef Plant, Roast-Beef-Plant, Stinking Gladwyn, Gladdon Iris, Gladwyn, Übelriechende Schwertlilie, Iris Gigot, Iris Puant

Scientific Names: , Iris foetidissima, Iris foetida, Chamaeiris foetidissima, Iris gaditana, Iris foetidissima var. lutescens, Xiphion foetidissimum, Chamaeiris foetida, Iris foetidissima var. flavescens, Iris foetidissima var. livida

GBIF Accepted Name: Iris foetidissima L.