White German iris

Description:

This subspecies of the German iris, which usually bears blue flowers, has been cultivated for centuries for its scented roots. Both the 'standard' and 'fall' petals of the flwoers are pure white with a faint bluish tinge, and a yellow 'beard' running down the centre of each fall petal. The spathe is always pale brown and papery by flowering time. The plants grows from thick rhizomes, which also form a dense mat of fibrous roots, often crowding out other plants.

Habitat:

Often found close to human habitation. Also along roadsides, field margins, olive groves, abandoned vineyards, and other cultivated sites.