Strappy evergreen iris from southern Africa with elegant white flowers marked yellow and violet, opening in fortnightly flushes. Almost indestructible, though it can naturalise.
At a glance
- Plant type: Perennial
- Mature size: 1 m H × 60 cm W
- Aspect: full sun and part shade or morning sun
- Water: happy on low water
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Large Wild Iris
Botanically, Dietes grandiflora is a moderate-growing perennial in the Iridaceae family. It reaches around 1 m tall and 60 cm wide at maturity, with evergreen foliage. White, purple and yellow flowers appear for much of the year.
Where to grow Large Wild Iris
Large Wild Iris suits warm-temperate, subtropical and Mediterranean climates and grows best in full sun and part shade or morning sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters. It also is a genuinely water-wise choice and tolerates salt-laden coastal winds.
Soil & planting
Most soils suit Large Wild Iris provided drainage is reasonable. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool. For a screen, space plants about 50 cm apart.
Watering & feeding
Large Wild Iris performs well with relatively little water once established. A light spring feed is usually enough to maintain steady growth. Keep a newly planted specimen evenly watered through its first season; established plants can then follow the water needs above.
Pruning & care
Prune Large Wild Iris after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. It clips well, so trim two or three times a year for a formal finish. Expect a low maintenance care workload once it is established.
Using Large Wild Iris in the garden
Large Wild Iris earns its place for a feature or specimen planting, holding soil on banks and slopes, pots and courtyard containers and a fast screen or informal hedge. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
For easier irrigation and care, group Large Wild Iris with species that also favour happy on low water and warm-temperate climate. Leave enough room for the mature spread so neighbouring plants are not crowded out.
Good to know
Be aware it can self-seed or spread into bushland in some regions — check it is not a declared weed in your area before planting.
Buying Large Wild Iris
Plant Sale lists Large Wild Iris as potted plants. Catalogue forms are planning guidance until the Plant Sale team confirms live availability.
