Iris germanica Purple flag (Iridaceae)

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Iris germanica
Purple flag
(1 Page of 5)

The Iris germanica plant species is found in The original habitat is obscure, it is probably of hybrid origin. It is a member of the Iridaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Purple flag.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

Latin Name:  Iris germanica
Common Name:  Purple flag
Family:  Iridaceae
Author:  L.

Known Hazards:  Many plants in this genus are thought to be poisonous if ingested, so caution is advised[65]. The roots are especially likely to be toxic[238]. Plants can cause skin irritations and allergies in some people[238].

Mature Height:  1   Mature Width:  1.5

Habitat:  Dry rocky places[187]

General Uses: The root is a source of Orris powder which has the scent of violets[238]. It is obtained by grinding up the dried root[4, 7, 46]. It is much used as a fixative in perfumery and pot-pourri, as an ingredient of toothpastes, breath fresheners etc and as a food flavouring. The root can take several years of drying to fully develop its fragrance, when fresh it has an acrid flavour and almost no smell[4, 168]. An essential oil is obtained from the fresh root, this has the same uses as the root[57, 61]. The juice of the root is sometimes used as a cosmetic and also for the removal of freckles from the skin[4]. A black dye is obtained from the root[168]. A blue dye is obtained from the flowers[168]. The seeds are used as rosary beads[61].

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Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'.
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