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Description
Iris Chrysographes, also known as the Black Iris or Golden Rayed Lily, is a species of flowering plant in the family Iridaceae. It is native to China and is widely cultivated for its beautiful flowers. The plant grows up to 60 cm tall and has dark green leaves that are sword-shaped. The flowers are usually dark purple or black with golden-yellow markings on the falls, which are the lower petals. They bloom in late spring or early summer and are known for their distinctive fragrance.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Iridaceae |
| Genus | Iris |
Appearance
Iris Chrysographes has long, narrow, sword-shaped leaves that are dark green in color. The flowers are large and showy, measuring up to 12 cm in diameter. They have six petals, with the three upper petals, or standards, standing upright and the three lower petals, or falls, pointing downwards. The falls are usually dark purple or black with golden-yellow markings. The flowers have a sweet fragrance that is especially strong in the evening.
Care Guide
Iris Chrysographes is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips on how to keep it healthy and thriving:- Water: Iris Chrysographes likes moist soil, but not waterlogged. Water deeply once a week, especially during hot and dry weather.- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in early spring with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid fertilizing in late summer or fall, as this can encourage new growth that may not survive the winter.- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Sandy loam or loamy soil is best.- Sunlight: Iris Chrysographes likes full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can result in poor growth and fewer flowers.- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Iris Chrysographes is generally a hardy plant that is not prone to many pests and diseases. However, here are a few issues to watch out for:- Iris borer: This is a common pest that can damage the leaves and rhizomes of the plant. Look for holes in the leaves and brownish-black frass, or insect waste, near the base of the plant. Remove any affected parts of the plant and dispose of them properly.- Root rot: This can occur if the plant is overwatered or grown in soil that does not drain well. Symptoms include yellowing and wilting leaves, and a foul odor from the roots. To prevent root rot, make sure the soil is well-draining and do not overwater the plant.
Habitat
Iris Chrysographes is native to China, where it grows in damp meadows, along stream banks, and in woodland areas. It is also commonly cultivated as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks around the world.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Iris Chrysographes tolerate cold temperatures?
A: Yes, the plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-9 and can tolerate cold temperatures.
Q: How often should I water Iris Chrysographes?
A: Water deeply once a week, especially during hot and dry weather.
Q: Can I grow Iris Chrysographes in a container?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in a container, but make sure the container has good drainage and is large enough to accommodate the plant’s roots.
Q: How often should I fertilize Iris Chrysographes?
A: Fertilize the plant in early spring with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid fertilizing in late summer or fall.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Iris Chrysographes:- Iris Ensata: This is a Japanese iris that has large, showy flowers in shades of blue, purple, and white. It is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.- Iris Germanica: This is a tall bearded iris that has large, fragrant flowers in shades of blue, purple, yellow, and white. It is hardy in USDA zones 3-9.- Iris Setosa: This is a wild iris that is native to North America. It has small, delicate flowers in shades of blue, purple, and white. It is hardy in USDA zones 2-8.
References
– “Iris Chrysographes.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=j900- “Iris Chrysographes.” Royal Horticultural Society. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/31504/Iris-chrysographes/Details- “Iris Chrysographes.” The Spruce. https://www.thespruce.com/black-iris-growing-profile-4781863
