Photo: ann2005, CC BY-SA 2.0 fr · source
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Pruning guide · Perennial
Stinking iris: when and how to prune
Iris foetidissima
Stinking iris is best pruned in March.
| Pruning months | March |
|---|---|
| Flowering | June–July |
| Native to Belgium | No, planted |
| Poisonous to people and pets | Yes, take care with children and pets |
Stinking iris: when to prune it?
It needs hardly any pruning. In March, remove old leaves and empty seed stems.
What else to prune in those months? March
Stinking iris: how to prune it?
- In March, cut brown, torn or frost-damaged leaves off at the base.
- Cut off old seed stems once the seeds have dropped or been eaten.
- Wear gloves: the sap can irritate the skin.
How much to cut, and how often?
- One pruning period a year: March.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- If you only cut back in March, the old stems stand through the winter: insects overwinter in them and birds eat the seeds.
Caution: Do not cut back healthy evergreen leaves: the plant needs them. Stinking iris is poisonous: wear gloves and keep clippings away from children, pets and livestock.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Stinking iris · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.