Iris foetidissima
“Gladwyn” “Stinking Iris”

photo: ecos de pedra/flickr.com

Not the nicest common name, but valuable in so many ways! This bombproof plant has survived & thrived in some of the most awful garden conditions I’ve ever seen. Dogs, kids, swamps, clay soil, rock soil, drought, deer, abuse, neglect, cold, heat, etcetera. I’m not kidding! It’s one tough cookie. Not the showiest of Irises, it does has some very nice features - robust, healthy green foliage that stays evergreen even in dark shade, subtle flowers of purple and taupe that are delicately detailed with fine markings & best of all, bright red seeds that emerge from the large seed pods in Fall. Great for almost any problem area in your garden. The leaves have a garlic odor if crushed, but most people will not notice any “stink” from this plant! From Western Europe & Northern Africa. To 1-2w high & 1-1.5' wide.

Claire Woods
Propagator