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Description
Iris Foetidissima, also known as stinking iris or gladdon, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Iridaceae family. It is native to Europe, North Africa, and Western Asia and is widely grown for its attractive foliage and bright-colored fruit. The plant typically grows up to 60-90 cm tall and has a rhizomatous root system.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Monocotyledonae |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Iridaceae |
| Genus | Iris |
Appearance
Iris Foetidissima has broad, sword-shaped leaves that are a dark green color and can grow up to 60 cm long. The plant produces flowers that are a pale yellow color and bloom in the late spring to early summer. The fruits are bright orange berries that are covered in a papery sheath and persist throughout the winter, providing a striking contrast to the foliage.
Care Guide
To care for Iris Foetidissima, it is important to provide it with the right amount of water, fertilizer, and sunlight. The plant prefers moist, well-drained soil and should be watered regularly during the growing season. It also benefits from a balanced fertilizer applied in the spring.Iris Foetidissima can grow in full sun to partial shade and is hardy to USDA zones 6-9. It can tolerate a range of soil types but prefers a neutral to slightly acidic pH.
Common Pests & Diseases
Iris Foetidissima is generally a hardy plant and is not susceptible to many pests or diseases. However, it can be affected by snails and slugs, which can damage the leaves and flowers. To prevent these pests, it is important to keep the area around the plant free of debris and to use organic slug baits.
Habitat
Iris Foetidissima is native to Europe, North Africa, and Western Asia and is found in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, hedgerows, and rocky areas. It is often grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Iris Foetidissima poisonous?
A: Yes, all parts of the plant are poisonous if ingested.
Q: When should I prune Iris Foetidissima?
A: The plant does not require regular pruning, but you can remove any dead or damaged foliage in the fall.
Q: Can Iris Foetidissima be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate its root system.
Q: How often should I fertilize Iris Foetidissima?
A: You should fertilize the plant once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Related Plants
- Iris germanica
- Iris sibirica
- Iris ensata
- Iris pseudacorus
References
- “Iris Foetidissima.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 20 July 2021. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277600
- “Iris Foetidissima.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 20 July 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/14150/iris-foetidissima/details
- “Stinking Iris (Iris Foetidissima).” Gardenia. Accessed 20 July 2021. https://www.gardenia.net/plant/iris-foetidissima-stinking-iris
