Iridaceae (Iris Family)

This family has about 1500 species in 80 genera. Probably the most notable value of the Iridaceae are that of ornamental species. The flowers of Iris and Gladiolus have always been a favorite of the in the horticultural trade. Most of the species are distributed in South Africa and tropical America.

Systematics: Look for disticous leaves that sheath and are equitant. They usually have 2 undifferentiated whorles with 3 distinct stamens and 3 style branches Often the stigmas are petaloid.

Wild Iris Iris sp.