Winter-Blooming Algerian Iris (Iris unguicularis)

Algerian Iris: Winter's Fragrant Lavender Jewels

The Winter-Blooming Algerian Iris (Iris unguicularis) is a remarkable evergreen perennial that flowers from late autumn through winter into early spring, producing fragrant, lavender-blue flowers with a distinct yellow signal patch on the falls. The narrow, tough, grass-like leaves form a dense, arching clump. Native to the Mediterranean, it thrives in hot, dry summers.

Cultivation

Plant in full sun, well-drained, even poor soil. It resents disturbance, so choose a permanent spot. Cut back old foliage in late summer to expose emerging buds. It is drought-tolerant once established. The flowers are excellent for cutting, bringing winter fragrance indoors. Hardy in USDA zones 7-9.

Taxonomy

• Family: Iridaceae
• Genus: Iris
• Species: unguicularis