Iris Swertii is a natural hybrid that was collected in a botanical garden by Dutch artist, botanist and rare plant merchant Emanuel Sweerts in 1612.

Only two irises that still exist today are known to be older that Swertii, Iris Florentina and Iris Pallida, both of which date to the 1500s.

When this iris is in bloom you’ll be enveloped by the fragrance of ripe grapes as you approach.

The flowers are petitie, smaller that modern hybrids, with a delicate appearance, but Swertii is a survivor. It grows in every state in the continental U.S. as well as France, Germany, Holland, Russia and the U.K.

The ends of the falls fold inward creating a pointed appearance. Purists consider this a flaw but it does give Swertii a unique character.

Plant this smaller iris near the front of your border or flower bed and enjoy the sweet fragrance of grapes.