Blood iris (Iris sanguinea, Hort. Bot. Hafn. 1: 58 (1813))

Family: Iridaceae

Author: Hornem.

Bibliography: Hort. Bot. Hafn. 1: 58 (1813)

Year: 1813

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Iris

Vegetable: False

Observations: S. Siberia to Japan

Description

The Blood Iris, known scientifically as Iris sanguinea, is a striking flowering plant that adds a splash of vivid color to the landscapes of its native regions, spanning from South Siberia to Japan. First classified by Hornem. in 1813 and documented in “Hortus Botanicus Hafniensis,” this elegant plant is a member of the Iridaceae family, which is renowned for its vibrant and diverse species.

The Blood Iris captivates with its deep, rich blooms, typically appearing in shades ranging from intense purples to striking reds, resembling the hues of blood, hence its common name. These blossoms stand out against their slender, sword-like foliage, creating a visually arresting display that is both dramatic and beautiful.

Adapted to thrive in the cool, temperate climates of its native habitat, the Blood Iris typically flourishes in moist, well-drained soils and is often found gracing the edges of water bodies or in woodland clearings. This hardy plant is not just limited to its native grounds; it has also become a popular choice among gardeners and horticulturists worldwide, valued for its resilience and the splash of color it brings to gardens during blooming season.

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the Blood Iris also holds a place in the ecological fabric of its habitat. It provides nectar and pollen for a variety of pollinators, contributing to the biodiversity and health of its ecosystem.

The cultivation of Iris sanguinea is relatively straightforward, making it an accessible choice even for those new to gardening. It requires minimal maintenance once established, needing only regular watering and occasional division to prevent overcrowding and to promote vigorous growth.

In summary, the Blood Iris, Iris sanguinea, is a botanical gem that combines beauty, hardiness, and ecological value. Whether in its natural settings from Siberia to Japan or in cultivated gardens around the world, this plant continues to enchant and inspire those who encounter its brilliant blooms.

Common Names

Eng: blood iris, bloodred iris, japanese iris
Deu: ostsibirische schwertlilie
Nob: fioliris
Nno: fioliris
En: Blood iris, Bloodred iris
Ar: سوسن دموي
Zh: 溪荪
Fi: Kuningatarkurjenmiekka
De: Ostsibirische Schwertlilie
Ko: 붓꽃
Nb: Fioliris
Nn: Fioliris
Fa: زنبق سنگونیا
Zh-hant: 溪蓀

Synonyms

• Limniris sanguinea ((Hornem.) Rodion.)
• Iris sibirica var. sanguinea ((Hornem.) Ker Gawl.)
• Iris sanguinea var. typica (Makino)

Distribution

• Amur (native)
• Buryatiya (native)
• China North-Central (native)
• China Southeast (native)
• Chita (native)
• Irkutsk (native)
• Japan (native)
• Khabarovsk (native)
• Korea (native)
• Kuril Is. (native)
• Manchuria (native)
• Mongolia (native)
• Primorye (native)
• Sakhalin (native)
• Yakutskiya (native)
• Assam (introduced)
• Austria (introduced)

Additional Images

Flower

Taken May 9, 2020 by alcedo (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 19, 2022 by Jodi Jodi Knight (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 19, 2022 by Manuëlle (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 19, 2022 by Manuëlle (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 19, 2022 by Manuëlle (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken Jun 19, 2022 by Manuëlle (cc-by-sa)

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:439065-1)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/5298821)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Iris sanguinea Donn ex Hornem.)

Specifications

Growth habit>: Forb/herb

Growth