A tufted native iris with strappy leaves producing a succession of delicate purple-blue three-petalled flowers in spring and summer. A hardy, grassy clumper for borders and damp spots.
At a glance
- Plant type: Perennial
- Mature size: 50 cm H × 40 cm W
- Aspect: full sun and part shade or morning sun
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Australian native
About Native Iris
Botanically, Patersonia occidentalis is a perennial in the Iridaceae family, native to Western Australia, Victoria, Tasmania and South Australia. It reaches around 50 cm tall and 40 cm wide at maturity, with evergreen foliage. Purple and blue flowers appear in spring and summer.
Where to grow Native Iris
Native Iris suits Mediterranean, warm-temperate and cool-temperate 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, tolerates salt-laden coastal winds and is usually left alone by rabbits.
Soil & planting
Native Iris does best in sandy, free-draining and acidic soil. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Native Iris does best with regular, moderate watering. As an Australian native, feed it only with a low-phosphorus native fertiliser. Check moisture below the mulch during establishment and water thoroughly when needed rather than following a rigid schedule.
Pruning & care
Prune Native Iris after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Once established, it is low maintenance.
Using Native Iris in the garden
Native Iris earns its place for pots and courtyard containers, holding soil on banks and slopes and feeding bees and pollinators. 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 Native Iris with species that also favour regular, moderate watering and Mediterranean climate. Leave enough room for the mature spread so neighbouring plants are not crowded out. It combines naturally with other Australian natives in a habitat or water-wise garden.
Buying Native Iris
Plant Sale lists Native Iris as tube stock, potted plants, advanced specimens and seed. Catalogue forms are planning guidance until the Plant Sale team confirms live availability.
Prefer to grow it yourself? See the Native Iris seed sowing guide for depth, timing and germination.
