Iris lutescens aka Crimean Iris

Taxonomy

Iris lutescens, also known as the Crimean iris, is a rhizomatous flowering plant that belongs to the genus Iris. It is native to North East Spain, Southern France, and Italy, and is usually found on rocky or sandy hillsides or in woodlands. This plant grows up to 30 cm tall, with broad leaves about 2.5 cm wide, and produces yellow or violet flowers in spring, specifically in March to April. The standards of the flowers are larger than the yellow-bearded falls. It prefers full sun, slightly acid soil, and dry conditions during its dormant period in the summer. It is very hardy and can survive temperatures down to −20 °C or less. Iris lutescens is cultivated as an ornamental plant in temperate regions and has gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit in the UK. This beautiful iris, named after the Greek goddess who rode rainbows, comes in many magical colors. Despite its divine origins, this June bloomer is rugged, reliable, and easy to grow. There are around 300 species in the genus Iris. If planted indoors, Crimean Iris is a relatively rare houseplant that requires regular watering to thrive. It does best in long-lasting, direct light and should be placed less than 1 foot from a window. The plant prefers soil that is good at retaining moisture, and it shouldn't need added fertilizers if you repot it each time it doubles in size.

Common names

Crimean Iris, Pygmy Iris

How to care for Crimean Iris

Difficulty

With its straightforward care requirements, Crimean Iris is a hassle-free plant that anyone can enjoy.

Water

Crimean Iris should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

If you're planting Crimean Iris, you need to make sure you use a potting soil that can retain moisture. While the soil should still be able to drain well, it should contain plenty of organic matter like coco coir or sphagnum moss to help it stay moist and nourish the roots of your plants. This is especially important since Crimean Iris is especially sensitive to dry soil. You can also add other amendments, such as compost, to help retain moisture and provide extra nutrients to your plants. Be sure to keep the soil evenly moist, but not soggy, throughout the growing season. With the right soil and proper care, your Crimean Iris will thrive!

Lighting

Crimean Iris requires abundant, bright and direct light. Placing it less than one foot from a window is the best way to make sure the plant receives enough light to survive and thrive. Depending on your region, however, the current weather can affect the placement of the plant in your home. For example, in some areas the sun may be too direct and intense, so it's best to place it farther away from the window. You may also need to adjust your placement according to the season as the sunlight can change intensity over the course of the year. If you live in a region with significant temperature fluctuations, such as a desert, you may need to place the plant a bit farther away from the window to avoid extreme heat or cold. With some care and attention, your Pygmy Iris will be sure to bring you many years of beauty and enjoyment.

Dormancy

During the wintertime, it is common for Crimean Iris plants to go dormant and their growth rate may slow down. Therefore, the amount of waterings should be spaced out more.

Toxicity

No verified data on the toxicity of this plant exists within Ploi's records. Should you, someone in your family, or your pet ingest plant material with an unknown toxicity level, it is recommended to seek medical advice.

Fertilizer

Once the Crimean Iris has doubled in size or after a year has passed, it should be moved to a new pot. By replacing the soil with fresh potting soil containing all the vital nutrients, your plant will receive all the sustenance it needs, negating the requirement for fertilizer. It's important to remember that plants get their energy from the sun, not fertilizer.


More info:
Wikipedia