Iris macrosiphon Bowltube iris (Iridaceae)

Browse Plants Articles

Power Search!

Browse Botanic Names

Sponsored By KhorWills

Iris macrosiphon
Bowltube iris
(1 Page of 5)

The Iris macrosiphon plant species is found in Southwestern N. America - California to Oregon. It is a member of the Iridaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Bowltube iris. Some home gardeners know the variety as I. amabilis. I. californica. I. elata.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

Latin Name:  Iris macrosiphon
Common Name:  Bowltube iris
Family:  Iridaceae
Author:  Torr.

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:  0.15   Mature Width:

Habitat:  Sunny grassy to woodland slopes below 1000 metres in California[71].

General Uses: A fibre is obtained from the leaves. Traditionally the N. American Indians would take just the one outside fibre from each side of a leaf. This must have neccesitated using a huge number of leaves. It makes a beautifully strong and pliable cord or rope[92]. The fibre can also be used for making paper[189] The leaves are harvested in summer after the plant has flowered, they are scraped to remove the outer skin and are then soaked in water for 2 hours prior to cooking. The fibres are cooked for 24 hours with lye and then beaten in a ball mill for 3 hours. They make a light tan paper[189].

For further Iris macrosiphon gardening information
click on one of the blue links below

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'.
View their bibliography
Useful Edible Plants Future