Roast-beef plant - Iris foetidissima (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Roast-beef plant

Also known as: Gladdon, Spurge plant, Gladwin iris

Roast-beef plant (Iris foetidissima), also known as stinking iris, is a perennial flowering plant of the iris family. Native to Europe, it got its common name for the smell of its leaves when crushed. Although the flower is pretty, the plant's red berry clusters are considered the most attractive aspect of the plant.

Scientific classification

Species

Roast-beef plant (Iris foetidissima)

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Toxic to Pets

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Late spring, Summer

Bloom Time

Fall, Winter

Harvest Time

75 cm

Plant Height

45 cm

Spread

Yellow, Purple, Violet

Flower Color

Green, Red, Orange

Stem Color

Evergreen

Leaf type

10 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Roast-beef plant

Distribution of Roast-beef plant

Distribution Map

Roast-beef plant is native to the western Mediterranean region and the adjacent Atlantic coast. It has been introduced to parts of continental Europe, as well as beyond, to regions with a temperate climate including Australasia. The plant is also widely cultivated, suggesting adaptation to various environments outside of its natural range.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Open woods, hedgebanks, shady places, sea cliffs

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use

Roast-beef plant is an excellent choice for groundcover, producing year-round foliage and attractive flowers from late spring to mid-summer. It is also an interesting specimen plant and can be grown in rock gardens and borders in temperate coastal areas and at the edges of wooded garden sites.

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Toxicity

Roast-beef plant is moderately toxic to humans, cats, and dogs. All parts of the plant can cause allergic reactions, gastrointestinal issues, and neurotoxic effects upon contact or ingestion. Symptoms include skin irritation, nausea, dizziness, and more. Immediate veterinary attention is crucial if cats or dogs are exposed. Preventive measures are essential to avoid accidental consumption or contact.

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Quickly Identify Roast-beef plant

Evergreen foliage forms clumps up to 18 inches (45 cm) tall and 2 feet (60 cm) wide.

Sword-shaped leaves provide a lush appearance year-round.

Produces light blue flowers barely surpassing foliage in mid-spring.

Striking orange-red seeds in elongated pods split open in fall.

Distinctive rhizomatous base and ornamental value set roast-beef plant apart.

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Care Guide for Roast-beef plant

Every week

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

10 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Thriving in woodland edges, roast-beef plant requires balanced moisture, with weekly watering to avoid oversaturation. Once established, it is drought-tolerant. Mulching is beneficial, retaining moisture and regulating temperature for this evergreen's year-round foliage.

Fertilize: To enhance roast-beef plant's growth, use balanced nutrition fertilizers in spring and high phosphorus fertilizers during blooming. Apply monthly, adjusting based on plant response and reduce in dormancy. Water roast-beef plant post-fertilization for nutrient absorption and to prevent root burn.

Pruning: Roast-beef plant features sword-shaped leaves and vibrant flowers, benefitting from early spring or late winter pruning to promote growth. Remove dead foliage and spent stems to enhance air circulation and prevent disease, using sharp, sterile tools for optimal results.

Propagation: Propagation of roast-beef plant through division involves separating clumps during dormancy. Each section should have a fan of leaves and part of the rhizome. Replant at the original depth and maintain consistent watering to promote root establishment.

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