African Iris (Dietes bicolor): Identification and Care for Georgia Gardens

We saw these flowers in San Francisco and Napa Valley. What are they, and can they grow in Georgia?

Identification: Dietes bicolor

This Iris family member is Dietes bicolor, also called African iris or fortnight lily.

Growing in Georgia

• Hardiness: Survives winter outdoors south of Macon. In North Georgia, dig roots in October.
• Storage: Remove leaves, store roots in perlite or crumpled newspaper indoors.
• Light: Full morning sun until early afternoon; shade after 2 PM.
• Water & Fertilizer: Keep soil moderately moist; fertilize in April and June.

African iris Dietes bicolor