Libertia ixioides
Chilean iris
An evergreen perennial to about 60cm, forming a dense, grassy clump of narrow leaves which may turn orange-brown in winter. In late spring and early summer produces open sprays of small, white flowers each with three large and three small petals
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Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.5–1 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | White | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | White | Green | ||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter | Green |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing
Exposure
ShelteredDrought resistance
Yes Hardiness
H3Botanical details
- Family
- Iridaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Tufted
- Genus
Libertia are clump-forming perennials with grass-like, evergreen leaves and panicles of saucer-shaped white or blue flowers, followed by orange seed capsules
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- New Zealand
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in moderately fertile, humus-rich soil that is moist but well-drained. Needs a warm sunny position and a dry mulch for protection in winter
Propagation
Propagate by seed in pots outdoors as soon as ripe or by division in spring
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Prairie planting
- Gravel garden
- Cut flowers
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
Remove flower stalks after flowering, tidy up in late winter
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
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