Iris hexagona Seeds | Dixie Iris
LATIN NAME: Iris hexagona
COMMON NAME: Dixie Iris, Six-angled Iris
Plant Profile
Among the ornamental and useful plants raised from seed, Dixie Iris (Iris hexagona) stands out as a tall, upright, herb in the iris family (Iridaceae), native to wetlands, swamps and streamsides of the southeastern united states, while it has been cultivated in gardens for its flowers. Plants that offer this much while asking this little are rare enough to treasure.
Science & Biotechnology
Within the iris family, Iris hexagona is of continuing interest to researchers working on plant diversity, seed biology and the selection of improved garden forms. The Dixie iris has a real and distinguished place in research. It retains a following among breeders and collectors, which keeps seed stocks in circulation.
Uses & Benefits
Dixie Iris works well in borders, containers and dedicated beds. The Dixie iris is a tall, upright, herbaceous perennial of wetlands, bearing long, sword-shaped leaves and large, blue or purple flowers in the spring. To raise the Dixie iris, sow seeds in pots of moist, open soil in a cool, bright place, keep them gently watered, and grow little plants on in the sun. It takes hold quickly and asks for no special treatment from then on.
Iris rhizomes, the orris of perfumery, yield one of the most luxurious fragrance materials after years of curing; the genus has toxic fresh rhizomes, so its medicinal history is strictly professional and its garden value immense.
Growing from Seed
Starting Dixie Iris from seed is simple and satisfying. Sow on the surface of a gritty, well-drained mix, cover lightly with fine compost, and maintain gentle, even moisture in a sunny position. Move strong seedlings into individual pots, keep them in good light, and set them out when the weather and their size agree.
Our Take
It is a solid representative of the Iris group, true to type from seed. Plant it in sun with drainage to its liking and the rest is easy.
Related Reading
Gardeners who grow Dixie Iris often pair it with these related subjects: