Grass-like foliage and white flowers almost all season long make this sturdy plant a great groundcover for warm climates.
Call on vigorously growing African iris to add color and texture to tough landscaping areas.
This plant from South Africa stands up to heat, drought, and neglect.
African iris is also a dependable addition to any rock or woodland garden.
Dig a furrow about two inches deep and 6 inches wide.
Place the rhizomes with the roots down and fanned out in all directions.
Cover the rhizomes with 1 inch of soil.
Space them at least 1 foot apart.
Partial shade during the hot afternoon hours is only acceptable in hot climates with Western exposure.
Watering is usually only needed during the first growing season until the plant is established.
Fertilizer
Despite its long bloom, African iris is not a heavy feeder.
For the amount to use, follow product label guidance.
For a neater appearance, you could also remove any dead leaves but thats optional.
Also, confirm it has large drainage holes.
Fill it with well-draining potting mix and compost.
Keep in mind that container plants require more frequent watering and fertilization than plants in the landscape.
Repot the plant in a larger container with fresh potting mix when the roots have filled the pot.
it’s possible for you to also divide the plant and repot it in several containers.
Pests and Problems
Common pests of African iris include nematodes, aphids, and iris borers.
The plant can also be affected by scales that coat the foliage.
Soil that is too wet or too alkaline for the plant manifests itself as yellow discoloration of the leaves.
How to Propagate African Iris
African iris is bestpropagated by division.
In a warm climate, this can be done in the spring or in the fall.
Dig up the entire clump with a shovel.
Shake off excess dirt and use a sharp spade to slice the rhizomes apart.
Discard any blemished and diseased rhizomes.
Plant the healthy ones in the landscape at the same depth as the original plant.
The flowers are light yellow with dark brown or violet blotches.
Zone 8-11
Dietes bicolor Variegata
This cultivar has variegated green foliage with cream-colored stripes.
The flowers are yellow with maroon blotches.
Zone 8-11
Frequently Asked Questions
There are two methods for overwintering the plant.
you’re able to overwinter the rhizomes by digging them up before the first fall frost.
Or you’ve got the option to bring potted plants inside in the fall.
Place them in a window with bright light but barely water them.
The plant has the tendency to self-seed but it is not considered invasive.
you might control the reseeding by cutting off the spent flowers before they set seed.
