Perennial
African Iris
Dietes iridioides
Monrovia® varieties
Varieties We Carry
African WhiteDietes iridioidesStandardDietes iridioidesWhiteDietes iridioides
Sizes & Pricing
1 galFrom$6.95
#2MonroviaFrom$44.95
3 galFrom$12.95
Fresh this week. Last restocked Jun 25.
LightPart Shade, Full Sun
WaterModerate
Mature size2-4 feet × 2-3 feet
About African Iris
African Iris (Dietes iridioides) is a clump-forming perennial from eastern Africa in the iris family, bearing fans of strap-like, evergreen leaves and delicate white flowers with yellow and purple markings that repeat throughout the year. It forms spreading rhizomatous clumps and is a durable, drought-tolerant ornamental for tropical and subtropical gardens. Starting at $6.95.
Plant details
- Bloom Season
- Spring, Summer, Fall
- Flower Color
- White
- Growth Rate
- Moderate
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Soil
- Sandy, Loam, Well-drained, Moist
Best planting months
Recommended forZone 9b · St. Augustine, FL
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Seasonal care
Bloom season. Good planting window.
Bloom season.
Bloom season. Ideal planting window.
Retains foliage through winter.
Care essentials
Light
African iris performs best in partial shade in NE Florida; it tolerates full sun but requires frequent irrigation when exposed to direct sun all day. A site with morning sun and afternoon shade is ideal for sustained bloom and healthy foliage in zone 9b's intense heat.
Water
African iris tolerates a wide moisture range — from moist to moderately dry soil — but blooms best with consistent moisture. In NE Florida's sandy soils, water regularly during dry spells; plants in full sun need more frequent irrigation. It can also grow in wet or boggy areas.
Soil & Fertilizer
Adaptable to sandy, loamy, and moist soils common to NE Florida. Amend sandy soil with compost to improve moisture retention. Fertilize lightly in spring and summer with a balanced slow-release fertilizer; avoid over-fertilizing, which encourages foliage at the expense of flowers. Divide crowded clumps every few years.
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Common questions
Is African Iris a good plant for St. Augustine?
African Iris is a perennial for Zone 9b coastal Florida gardens, with medium salt tolerance, reaching 2-4 feet × 2-3 feet.
Care information verified from
Last reviewed February 2026. Our care guidance comes from trusted horticulture sources and decades of helping St. Augustine gardeners. Conditions here can vary dramatically from one area to the next, so come ask us and we'll tailor it to your yard.