Herb Library

Back to Herb Menu     Back to Index


(Iris germanica florentina)

PROPAGATION: By division. Replant with half of rhizome above the surface of the soil. Has a tendency to rot if completely covered.
NEEDS: Full sun to partial shade and well-drained fertile soil.
HARVEST: There are several methods.
1. Dig rhizomes after blooming; peel and dry in the sun. Use a dust mask if pulverizing the dry root as it can be allergenic.
2. Dig the root and chop or shred while fresh; as drying occurs, the sweet fragrance develops, but takes 2 years.
3. Dig up older roots in fall; peel; shred or chop and then dry. Grate or grind fresh peeled root in food processor; spread on mesh a few days to dry (this avoids the dust). Fragrance of the root continues to develop upto 2 years. Also try other bearded iris roots.


The dried powdered root is used in dry shampos, bath salts and talcum powder.

Used as a fixative in potpourri. Used in herb pillows.

©2001 by Ernestina Parziale, CH