Belamcanda chinensis Seeds | (syn. Iris Domestica)
LATIN NAME: Belamcanda chinensis (syn. Iris domestica)
COMMON NAME: Blackberry Lily
Plant Profile
Blackberry Lily (Belamcanda chinensis, syn. Iris domestica) is a rhizomatous perennial of the iris family (Iridaceae), native to China, Japan and the Himalaya. It grows 60-100 cm tall, with sword-shaped, iris-like leaves and branched stems of orange, red-spotted flowers that open flat in summer, followed by pods that split to reveal clusters of shiny black seeds like a blackberry. The rhizome is a traditional throat herb of Chinese medicine.
Science & Biotechnology
Within the Belamcanda group, Belamcanda chinensis (syn. Iris domestica) is of continuing interest to researchers working on plant diversity, seed biology and the selection of improved garden forms. The upshot for anyone sowing it is reassurance — cultivated stock of this plant has a long, well-documented track record.
Uses & Benefits
Beyond its ornamental appeal, Blackberry Lily has the practical versatility that makes a plant worth growing from seed year after year. Blackberry lily root remains a component of traditional Chinese herbal formulas for throat and respiratory support, and as with any medicinal herb, appropriate use is best discussed with a qualified herbalist. As an ornamental, its speckled orange flowers and, even more so, its striking blackberry-like seed clusters make it a genuinely eye-catching addition to a border, valued as much for its unusual seed display as for its summer flowers. Beyond the establishment year, its needs are simple and few.
The blackberry lily’s rhizome, She Gan, is a standard Chinese herb for sore throats, with isoflavones such as tectoridin studied for anti-inflammatory activity. In the garden it offers spotted orange flowers and ornamental black seed clusters.
Growing from Seed
Raising Blackberry Lily from seed is straightforward. Sow seed onto surface of a loose, well-drained mix without covering it deeply, keeping it consistently moist. Full sun suits this hardy perennial well, and once established it typically self-seeds readily, its striking black seed clusters often persisting attractively on plant well into autumn. Use a loose, well-drained seed compost, sow evenly over the surface and cover lightly, and keep everything evenly moist in full sun. Transplant the sturdiest seedlings to their permanent spots and let them develop without disturbance.
Our Take
Blackberry Lily is the kind of plant that rewards a permanent spot. From then on, routine care is all that is required.
Related Reading
Gardeners who grow Blackberry Lily often pair it with these related subjects: