Diplarrena moraea

Butterfly Flag

Densely tufted perennial herb spreading through short underground stems.

FamilyIridaceae
StoreyLower storey
Size0.1-0.7 m x 0.5-1 m
Plant groupingLilies & Irises
LeavesDark to grey-green strap-like leaves 10-70 cm x 5-10 mm. 2-4 green bracts on flowering stem with a pair of bracts below the flowers.
Flower colourWhite, inner petals white & yellow often with purple markings
Flowering timeOctober to December
FlowersCluster of 3-6 large scented flowers on a stout flowering stem to 1 m high, held above the foliage. Outer 3 petals white, inner 3 petals multi-coloured, smaller. Capsule triangular.
Bird attractingNo
Butterfly attractingNo
Frog habitatYes
Growing conditionsMoist well drained soil in lowland heathlands and open forest. Frost tolerant. Full sun, semi shade.
Garden useMasses of flowers provide a great effect in rockeries and garden beds. A large tussock for background planting in cottage gardens. Containers. Near water features.
Commercially availableGenerally
Conservation statusSignificant within the Shire. Known from very few local sites. More common to the south of the Shire and in East Gippsland.
Related speciesOften confused commercially with the South African iris Moraea iridioides.