Iris foetidissima - mole-repellent iris (Tray plant)

Rhizomatous evergreen herbaceous plant, up to 70-100 cm tall, characterized by lanceolate, rigid, shiny, dark green leaves. If broken or rubbed they give off an odor that can be unpleasant. The odorless flowers are lilac in color with creamy yellow shades. The fruits are brown capsules which open when ripe, revealing the very decorative red seeds inside. Plant anciently used in vegetable gardens, as its smell is believed to repel moles.

Pedoclimatic needs

It adapts to all types of soil, preferring calcareous and well-drained ones. Prefers exposure in full sun or partial shade. Rustic species, it tolerates minimum temperatures reaching -8°/-10°C.

Botanical Information

Botanical Name: Iris foetidissima

Family: Iridaceae