Iris adriatica

It is similar in form to Iris pseudopumila, Iris pumila and Iris attica. It has a rhizome, and has falcate (sickle-shaped), or straight leaves, that can grow up to between 3–10 cm (1–4 in) long, and between 0.5 and 1 cm wide. They are normally longer than the flowering stem, and die back at winter. It has a dwarf stem, that can grow up to between 1–5 cm (0–2 in) tall. The stem has green spathes (leaves of the flower bud), that have wide scarious (membranous) margins, they are similar in size to the perianth tube, at 4–7 cm (2–3 in) long and slightly keeled at blooming time. The stems hold 1 terminal (top of stem) flower, blooming in spring, in March and April. The large flowers, come in shades of yellow, red, purple, or violet. Or they can be a combination of these colours. Like other irises, it has 2 pairs of petals, 3 large sepals (outer petals), known as the 'falls' and 3 inner, smaller petals (or tepals), known as the 'standards'. The falls have a beard in the centre, which is either blue of yellow. After the iris has flowered, it produces an elliptical or trigonous (having three angles or corners) seed capsule, that is 2–3 cm long, when ripe it is straw coloured. Inside the capsule are many little, elliptical shaped, dark brownish seeds. They are smaller and darker than other similar irises.

Biochemistry. …

It is found in the Mediterranean country, of Croatia, within the Dalmatia region. Including around the Croatian towns of Zadar, Šibenik, Split, Drniš and Unešić. As well as being found on the islands of Ciovo, Brač, Kornati, and Vir.

It is hardy to USDA Zone 8. It needs dry summers. It is thought to be difficult to grow in cultivation. It can be found growing in Biokovo Botanical Garden Kotišina.