Gladwyn Iris
Iris foetidissima
Also listed as Chamaeiris foetidissima, Iris foetida
Also known as Stinking Iris, Gladdon, Gladdon Iris
Climate Match for your location
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A semi-evergreen perennial iris with narrow, strap-like foliage and small purple-brown flowers, grown primarily for its showy clusters of bright orange-red seeds that persist through fall and winter. Extremely tough and adaptable, thriving in difficult sites with minimal maintenance.
Why grow it
Gladwyn iris distinguishes itself among shade-tolerant perennials through its extended ornamental interest, offering foliage structure when many woodland plants have faded and persistent seed pods that provide winter color and wildlife food. Unlike many flowering perennials that deliver brief seasonal impact, this species maintains visual appeal across multiple seasons with minimal deadheading or maintenance.
Watch out for
The foliage has a distinctive musty odor when crushed or brushed against, which some gardeners find off-putting in close plantings or along pathways. In consistently wet sites, even this moisture-tolerant species may experience reduced vigor or crown rot over time, so ensure adequate drainage even in shade gardens.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Iridaceae
Native Range
Western and Central Europe
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Season of Interest
Notable Cultivars
'Citrina' features pale yellow flowers and is prized for softer color; the species form is most valued for its dramatic red seed display.
Herb
Soft non-woody plants of the field layer.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
A semi-evergreen perennial iris with narrow, strap-like foliage and small purple-brown flowers, grown primarily for its showy clusters of bright orange-red seeds that persist through fall and winter. Extremely tough and adaptable, thriving in difficult sites with minimal maintenance.
Climate Match for your location
See how well Gladwyn Iris grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
Why grow it
Gladwyn iris distinguishes itself among shade-tolerant perennials through its extended ornamental interest, offering foliage structure when many woodland plants have faded and persistent seed pods that provide winter color and wildlife food. Unlike many flowering perennials that deliver brief seasonal impact, this species maintains visual appeal across multiple seasons with minimal deadheading or maintenance.
Watch out for
The foliage has a distinctive musty odor when crushed or brushed against, which some gardeners find off-putting in close plantings or along pathways. In consistently wet sites, even this moisture-tolerant species may experience reduced vigor or crown rot over time, so ensure adequate drainage even in shade gardens.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Iridaceae
Native Range
Western and Central Europe
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Season of Interest
Herb
Soft non-woody plants of the field layer.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
Similar herbs you might consider:
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Companion Planting
Plants well with
Notable Cultivars
'Citrina' features pale yellow flowers and is prized for softer color; the species form is most valued for its dramatic red seed display.