Small Yellow-Flower Iris

(Iris minutoaurea)

Small Yellow-Flower Iris (Iris minutoaurea)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Iris minutoaurea, commonly known as Small Yellow-Flower Iris, is a deciduous perennial bulb native to the grasslands and open woodlands of East Asia, particularly Korea. It features long, grassy-like leaves and produces bright yellow or pale yellow flowers on a short stem. The foliage emerges in early March, with leaves elongating after flowering and reaching their maximum height of up to 40 cm (16 in) by June. The plant typically blooms in spring, offering a brief but vibrant display.

The Small Yellow-Flower Iris is appreciated for its bright, cheerful flowers and is cultivated as an ornamental plant in temperate regions. While it has been grown in the UK and Europe, it remains rare and is considered challenging to cultivate successfully. In contrast, it has a long history of cultivation in Japan, where it thrives more readily. This iris prefers humus-rich, well-drained, neutral to acidic soils and enjoys full sun, although it can tolerate part shade. It is well-suited for rock gardens and scree-like slopes due to its preference for well-drained conditions. Gardeners should avoid overly wet areas. Propagation is typically done by division, which is necessary when clumps become congested and flowering diminishes. The ideal planting times are September or March. Remarkably, the iris is resistant to slug damage and is hardy to temperatures between −15 to −20 °C (5 to −4 °F).CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Bulb
  • Height: 0.8-1.3 feet
  • Width: 0.6-1.3 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Yellow
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Medium, High
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Rabbit Resistant, Rock Garden, Showy Flowers

Natural Habitat

native to the grasslands and open woodlands of East Asia, particularly Korea

Other Names

Common Names: 금붓꽃

Scientific Names: , Iris minutoaurea, Iris minuta, Iris savatieri, Limniris minutoaurea, Zhaoanthus minutoaureus,

GBIF Accepted Name: Iris minutoaurea Makino