Stinking Iris

Iris foetidissima

WA monitor Iridaceae

Data Maturity Baseline

Washington State Classification

Monitor List

This plant is on the monitor list - it is not a listed noxious weed in Washington.

Quick Reference

Type

perennial herb

Origin

Western Europe and Northern Africa.

Identification

Growth Habit

This is a hardy and adaptable iris, which grows 12-18 inches tall and clumps over 2 feet wide.

Leaves

Evergreen, thick, long, mostly upright, grass shaped leaves, which are 12-18 inches long and 1-2 inches wide

Flowers

Light purple to brown, 3 sided iris flowers. Have a foul or beefy smell.

Fruit & Seeds

relatively large, bright orange berries burst open, along 3 frills, from sausage-like pods.

Impact

This plant is on the monitor list - it is not a listed noxious weed in Washington. Please contact Jason Ontjes to report location or for more information.

Ecology & Spread

Habitat

Stinking iris grows in a variety of habitats, from sunny to shaded areas, which can be wet or dry. Burke Herbarium has information on some locations it has been found in Washington State.

Spread Mechanisms

seed vegetative fragments

Reproduction

Seed and rhizome

Regional Notes — Puget Sound