Neomarica - Plant Encyclopedia Results

It has short lived ivory flowers with reddish-brown transverse bars on the claw. The delicate flowers last only a day but the plant continues to form new blooms for long periods of time during late spring months. Makes also an excellent houseplant. This is not a water Iris, be careful not to overwater. Neomarica gracilis is a type of walking Iris. Once the flower is spent, the stem that it was born on lays to the ground and from that a new plant is formed. For that reason it is said to be walking across your garden. You can divide plants and plant them in new locations.

Neomarica gracilis grows best in moist, well-draining soil in areas with light to full shade but will also tolerate some sun as long as they receive adequate moisture.

Rhizomatous perennial with showy flowers. This plant can be used indoors as a lucky bamboo or lucky mangrove. It is a unique plant since it tolerates both drought and flooding, so it can be grown in a container with water, terrarium, aquarium or just a small dish. It tolerates full shade as well, thus can be kept in low light conditions as a house plant. It can grow in neglect in a glass of water for years! If planted oudoors, the plant blooms all year, but is at it's best in Spring thru Autumn. It stays green all year and grows up to 2-3 feet. Should be planted in grassy clumps in zone 9 or above. Flowers are yellow with mottled brown spots. Each flower lasts only one day, but another flower will takes it's place the following day. Plant in part shade, especially in hot Summer days. After flowering this plant makes many off-set plant "pups" with air roots to be replanted, or allow them to replant themselves. Can be easily propagated from a small off-set. Neomarica literally signifies the change of seasons. Typically a late- winter bloomer, some Neomaricas flower successively well into springtime. Once the flowering has finished, young plants grow up next to the spent bloom. The weight of the new growth carries the flowering stem to the ground. In a natural environment, the plants will root into the ground and start a new plant. In time, large clumps will spread in every direction, and the plant has literally "walked" its way into a new existence. However, as a potted specimen they will not form new plants, but will remain as beautiful contained specimens.

This species was discovered in Brazil near the ocean in shady sandy soil, so it is salt tolerant. Plants will grow in full sun but foliage color is best in light shade; water regularly. The best specimens seem to be in moist, well drained soil in locations with morning sun and some shade in the afternoon. Their fertilizer requirements are modest. Clumps may be divided but propagation from fresh seed is easy and fairly fast. Plants mature to flowering size from seed in less than a year. Cold hardy only to about 30F.

Variety Regina was introduced by Sid Gardino, and named after his wife, Regina.

This beauty thrives in shady spots and sandy soil, making it perfect for gardens near the coast, thanks to its salt tolerance.

With its elegant blue-violet blooms and sword-like leaves, Iris Regina adds a splash of tropical charm to your garden, all while asking for very little in return. It's the kind of plant that makes your garden look fabulous without breaking a sweat!