Iridaceae: the Iris Family
The saffron we use in the kitchen and all her spring and autumn crocus cousins are members of this family. Orris root, used in medicines and gin making, is the rhisome of Iris Germanica.
Epsom & Ewell Flower Finder
Iridaceae: the Iris Family
Carl Linnaeus named this family for the goddess Iris - messenger and the bringer of rainbows. He wasn't wrong! They are some of the prettiest and diverse flowers on earth. We grow a variety in our gardens, but of our natives, there are only two. The mill area of the Hogsmill around Ewell Village is a good place to see both species.
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Iris foetidissima
Stinking Iris, Gladwyn, Roast Beef Plant
Evergreen, dull yellow & purple flower. Plant up to 1 metre high.
About
One of our only two native iris. Grows in deep shade but happy to grow anywhere. This one was growing at the foot of a sunny wall in Cuddington, Surrey. Berry-like seeds persist through winter.
As one flower fades the plant puts out another and as it does so, drops of nectar fall, attracting crawling and flying insects. The leaves of the plant smell odd when crushed, hence "stinking" in the name.
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Iris pseudacorus
Yellow Iris, Flag Iris
Yellow blooms, sword-like leaves. Plant up to 1.5 metre high.
About
Common plant of the shallows. Tolerant of poor quality water and salt marsh. Grows from thick rhizomes, much like the Bearded Iris that grow in our gardens. Useful waterfowl nesting cover (the Rail, above, is one example) and food for pollinators.
The origin of the fleur de lis, symbol in heraldry (and scouting!). Identified with the Virgin Mary/Holy Trinity. The three petals denote such things as three desirable knightly qualities (closing the toilet seat, giving up the TV remote and loading the dishwasher).
HOMEMore information
SURREY'S WILDFLOWERING PROJECT is a community-led initiative, aiming to build a partnership that enables wildflowering in the county as well as promoting and celebrating the boroughs/districts diverse environments. Do take the time to find out more about the project and if you can get involved, even in a small way, you will make a difference.
THE SCC BLUE CAMPAIGN© The Epsom & Ewell Flower Finder. I'm out and about but you can get in touch via Cuddington Online Facebook 