Rocky Mountain Iris

Iris missouriensis

Physical Characteristics

Iris missouriensis is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.8 m (2ft 7in) by 1 m (3ft 3in). It is in flower from May to June. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist or wet soil.

Distribution

Western N. America - British Columbia to Mexico, east to South Dakota and Alberta.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; Bog Garden;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Edible Uses: Coffee The roasted seed is a coffee substitute[177, 183].

Medicinal Uses

Analgesic Diuretic Emetic Odontalgic Poultice Salve Stomachic Rocky Mountain iris was employed medicinally by several native North American Indian tribes who used it to treat various complaints, but especially as an external application for skin problems[257]. It was for a time an officinal American medicinal plant[4], but is little, if at all, used in modern herbalism. The root is emetic and odontalgic[61, 257]. An infusion has been used in the treatment of kidney and bladder complaints, stomach aches etc[257]. The pulped root is placed in the tooth cavity or on the gum in order to bring relief from toothache[207]. A decoction of the root has been used as ear drops to treat earaches[257]. A poultice of the mashed roots has been applied to rheumatic joints and also used as a salve on venereal sores[257]. Caution is advised in the use of this plant, see the notes above on toxicity[K]. A paste of the ripe seeds has been used as a dressing on burns[257].

Known Hazards

Many plants in this genus are thought to be poisonous if ingested, so caution is advised[65]. An arrow poison was made from the ground-up roots[207]. Plants can cause skin irritations and allergies in some people[238].