Iris foetidissima – Gladdon

Gladdon (or stinking iris as it is less attractively known) is a medium tall perennial readily identifiable as an iris by its foliage and flower. Its flowers are usually a purple-gray tinged with brown or an off yellow and are in bloom throughout June and July. However its most distinctive feature is its large seed pod which splits in autumn to reveal bright orange berries.

Habitat Information
Gladdon is a native perennial found, almost always, on calcareous soils. It tolerates both drought and shade and is often found in hedge banks and woodlands. In coastal areas it can also be found in rough grassland and scrub. Reproduction is by seed and by rhizomatous extension.

Growing Information
Seed is best sown in the autumn but can be used at any time of the year.