German iris (Iris germanica)

Other names Bearded Iris, flags

At a glance

Lifecycle: Perennial (hardy)
Exposure: Full sun
Frost limit: −28.9 °C

Cultivation

A very easily grown plant that tolerates considerable neglect. Many named varieties have been selected for their ornamental value. The plant is sterile and does not produce seed. Members of this genus are rarely if ever troubled by browsing deer or rabbits.

Propagation

Seed - best sown as soon as it is ripe in a cold frame. Stored seed should be sown as early in the year as possible in a cold frame. A sterile plant, it does not produce seed. Division, best done after flowering. Very easy, larger clumps can be replanted direct into their permanent positions, though it is best to pot up smaller clumps and grow them on in a cold frame until they are rooting well. Plant them out in the spring.

Edible uses

The root is dried and used as a flavouring.

Medicinal uses

The root is diuretic, emetic, expectorant and mildly purgative.

Material uses

The root is a source of Orris powder which has the scent of violets. The juice of the root is sometimes used as a cosmetic and also for the removal of freckles from the skin. A black dye is obtained from the root. A blue dye is obtained from the flowers. The seeds are used as rosary beads.