African iris

African iris is an evergreen, rhizomatous perennial that forms broad clumps of upright, strap-like leaves. Its large white flowers have yellow and violet markings and open in flushes through summer in northern gardens; South Australian guidance records local spring and summer bloom. [Royal Horticultural Society](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/5850/dietes-grandiflora/details) [Botanic Gardens and State Herbarium of South Australia](https://plantselector.botanicgardens.sa.gov.au/Plants/Details/3520) ## Garden Use Use this species in borders, mass plantings, or as a strong foliage accent. It grows about 3–5 feet tall, with a spread commonly described around 2–3 feet, and its flowering stems rise above the leaves. The blooms attract bees and other pollinators. [Botanic Gardens and State Herbarium of South Australia](https://plantselector.botanicgardens.sa.gov.au/Plants/Details/3520) ## Growing Conditions Plant in full sun or part shade in moist but well-drained soil. It tolerates dry conditions after establishment and generally needs little supplementary water in suitable climates. Allow space for the rhizomes to form a spreading clump. ## Maintenance Remove spent flower stems if you want a tidier display, and divide large clumps when you want new plants or need to manage spread. Flower timing differs by region; the South Australian selector uses Southern Hemisphere seasons, while the RHS describes summer flowering in the Northern Hemisphere.