Species stinking iris Guide
caramel-blue-purple petals, green, narrow, long leaves and green stem

stinking iris

Iris foetidissima

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Division,Seed Propagation,Cutting,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

6 - 9

Flowers:

Pale lilac Flowers In Spring

Sun:

full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Moderate

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Thorny:

Yes

Invasive:

Yes

Tropical:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Stinking iris should be watered moderately, approximately once a week. The amount of water depends on the soil and climate, but in general, the soil should be kept moist. Ensure adequate drainage around the roots of the plant. In times of drought and hot weather, increase watering to twice per week, and cut back during cold and wet weather. As always, use your finger or a soil moisture gauge to check the soil prior to watering.

sunlight

Stinking iris plants, otherwise known as Iris foetidissima, need a minimum of 4 hours of sunlight each day in order to thrive. During the summer season this should ideally increase to 6-8 hours per day. It is especially important that the plant gets enough direct sunlight during the morning hours, as this is when it will benefit the most. Additionally, the Stinking Iris should have some amount of shade during the afternoon hours, as this will help to prevent scorching and other negative impacts of overheating.

pruning

Stinking iris (Iris foetidissima) is typically a low-maintenance plant and requires minimal pruning. It's important to prune stinking iris in early spring, before new growth resumes, to control its shape and size. To prune, use pruning shears to remove any dead, diseased, or weak stems and foliage. Cut back the old flower shoots to the ground and trim away any foliage that is growing outside of the desired shape. Stinking iris may also be thinned out if there is overcrowding of plants. Finally, if a more drastic pruning is desired, such as to help contain the size of the plant or if they have become too leggy, cut back the tops of the stems to a height that is about 1-third the original size. Stinking iris is typically only pruned once a year, making it an ideal plant for those seeking a low-maintenance garden.