The Yellow Rainbow of the Tyrrhenian

Iris lutescens Lam.
Scientific name:
Iris lutescens Lam.
Common name:
Dwarf Iris
Family:
Iridaceae
Biological form:
Geofita rizomatosa

Characteristics

Habit: Small perennial herb up to 20 cm. Leaves lanceolate, arranged in fans. Flowers: Yellow or violet with hairy “beard”. Fruits: Large capsules with globose seeds. Flowering: March–May.

Distribution and habitat

Chorological type: Northwestern Mediterranean. Distribution in Italy: Coastal and Tyrrhenian areas. Habitat: Open scrub and rocky soils, 100–1400 m.

Etymology

Generic name (Iris): Means rainbow. Specific name (lutescens): Refers to yellow color.

Uses and properties

Primarily ornamental plant.