Iris suaveolens

An uncommon little Iris, this one has large purple flowers appearing above short tufts of curved, greyish leaves. The flowers are up to 5cm (2") across and seem unfeasibly large for the size of the plant which is only about 12cm (5") high. Often described in books as having yellow flowers but may also be purple, as ours is.

Hardy, but prefers a well-drained, sunny position and is special enough to deserve growing in an alpine house (or porch or conservatory etc.) where its spring flowers can be enjoyed undamaged by wind or rain. It can also be grown out in the garden as well given the right spot and we find it easy to grow.