Hedges Direct 
Iris Foetidissima (Stinking Gladwyn) - 2L Pot Iris foetidissima
Out of stock
Key Features
NATIVE
AVERAGE GROWING
HAS FLOWERS (Purple)
Seasonal Availablity
- JAN
- FEB
- MAR
- APR
- MAY
- JUN
- JUL
- AUG
- SEP
- OCT
- NOV
- DEC
Description
Iris foetidissima, commonly known as Stinking Gladwyn or Stinking Iris, is a distinctive evergreen perennial prized for its upright sword-like foliage, unusual dusky flowers, and brilliant autumn seed display. This hardy native iris is especially valued for bringing structure and interest to difficult parts of the garden, including dry shade, woodland edges, and awkward border spaces where many other plants struggle.
In late spring to summer, Iris foetidissima produces small, yellow-tinged dull purple flowers nestled among the glossy green leaves. While the blooms are understated, they are followed by large seed pods that split open in autumn to reveal striking orange-red seeds, which often persist well into winter and provide exceptional seasonal interest.
Its upright, architectural habit makes it ideal for shady borders, woodland gardens, wildlife-friendly planting, and naturalistic schemes. As one of only two iris species native to Britain, it is also a valuable choice for native and informal garden settings. Once established, it tolerates shade and relatively dry soil very well, making it a dependable and low-maintenance addition to the garden.
Hardy and easy to grow, Iris foetidissima thrives in well-drained soil in sun, partial shade, or full shade. Supplied in a 2L pot, this established plant is ready to provide year-round foliage, subtle flowers, and brilliant autumn colour.
Evergreen native iris
Upright sword-like green foliage
Dusky purple flowers with yellow tinges
Bright orange-red seeds in autumn and winter
Architectural clump-forming habit
Ideal for shade, woodland gardens, and difficult spots
Tolerates dry shade once established
Hardy and low maintenance
Supplied in a 2L pot
Position:
Plant in full sun, partial shade, or full shade. It is especially useful in shady positions, including beneath trees.
Planting:
Grow in moist but well-drained or well-drained soil. It suits chalk, clay, loam, or sandy soils and copes with a wide range of pH levels.
Watering & Feeding:
Water during establishment, then reduce once settled. This species is valued for coping with drier conditions once mature, especially in shaded areas.
Pruning:
Remove old or damaged leaves in spring if needed, and leave the seed pods in place through autumn and winter for ornamental value. This pruning guidance is a sensible horticultural inference based on the plant’s decorative seed display.
Winter Care:
Iris foetidissima is hardy in UK conditions and remains evergreen in most gardens. Avoid prolonged waterlogging in winter for best performance.
Q: Is Iris foetidissima evergreen?
Yes, it is an evergreen perennial with glossy green leaves that provide structure all year.
Q: What colour are the flowers?
The flowers are dull purple or dusky lavender with yellow tinges.
Q: What makes this plant special?
It is especially loved for its seed pods, which split open in autumn to reveal vivid orange-red seeds that often last into winter.
Q: Is it suitable for shade?
Yes, it is one of the best irises for shade and is particularly useful in dry, difficult areas of the garden.
Q: Is it easy to maintain?
Yes, it is a hardy, reliable, low-maintenance perennial once established.
Vital Plant Information
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Step 1
Root Grow & Fertiliser
Ensure you buy root grow and fertiliser with your plants at the time of purchase
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Step 2
Prepare Your Planting Area
Make sure your planting area is in good condition and suitable for planting
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Step 3
Plant & Feed
Plant with root grow & the second feed. Support plants if necessary. Water regularly