Contents
Description
Iris Lactea, commonly known as Milky Iris or White Iris, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Iridaceae family. It is native to China, India, and Southeast Asia. The plant produces beautiful, fragrant flowers that are white, with a yellow or orange spot on the falls. It blooms from late spring to early summer, and its flowers last for only a few days. The plant can grow up to 60 cm in height and 30 cm in width.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Iridaceae |
| Genus | Iris |
Appearance
The plant has an upright growth habit with narrow, sword-shaped leaves that are greyish-green in color. Its flowers are large, showy, and fragrant, with six petals that are arranged in a fan shape. The flowers are white, with a yellow or orange spot on the falls, and they bloom from late spring to early summer. The plant produces a capsule fruit that contains numerous small seeds.
Care Guide
Water: Iris Lactea prefers well-draining soil that is moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant deeply once a week, especially during hot and dry weather.
Fertilization: The plant does not require frequent fertilization. Apply a slow-release fertilizer in the spring or fall to provide essential nutrients.
Soil: The plant prefers well-draining, sandy soil that is slightly acidic. Amend the soil with compost or peat moss to improve its quality.
Sunlight: Iris Lactea requires full sun to partial shade to grow and bloom well. It can tolerate some shade but may not flower as profusely.
Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Iris Lactea is relatively disease resistant, but it may be susceptible to root rot if grown in poorly draining soil. The plant may also be affected by pests such as aphids, thrips, and spider mites. Regular monitoring and proper cultural practices can minimize pest and disease problems.
Habitat
Iris Lactea is native to China, India, and Southeast Asia, where it grows in moist, well-draining soils in open woodlands, meadows, and along stream banks. The plant is also cultivated as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes.
Question and Answer
Q: When is the best time to plant Iris Lactea?
A: The best time to plant Iris Lactea is in the fall, as it allows the plant to establish its roots before the onset of winter.
Q: Can Iris Lactea be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Iris Lactea can be grown in containers, provided that the container has drainage holes and the soil is well-draining.
Q: How often should Iris Lactea be fertilized?
A: Iris Lactea does not require frequent fertilization. Apply a slow-release fertilizer once a year in the spring or fall.
Q: How often should Iris Lactea be watered?
A: Water Iris Lactea deeply once a week, especially during hot and dry weather. Avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.
Related Plants
- Iris Setosa
- Iris Versicolor
- Iris Ensata
- Iris Sibirica
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Iris lactea. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=j580
- Royal Horticultural Society. (n.d.). Iris lactea. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/65387/Iris-lactea/Details
- University of Wisconsin-Madison Arboretum. (n.d.). Iris lactea. Retrieved from https://arboretum.wisc.edu/trees-plants/plant/Iris-lactea/
