Iris kemaonensis

Irisflower

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colspan=2 style="text-align: center; background-color: transparent" | Iris kemaonensis
colspan=2 style="min-width:15em; text-align: center; background-color: transparent" | Scientific classification
Missing taxonomy template ([//en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?action=edit&title=Template:taxonomy/Irideae&preload=Template:Taxonomy/preload fix]):	[[Irideae ]]
Genus	Iris
Species	I. kemaonensis
colspan=2 style="text-align: center; background-color: transparent" | Binomial name
Iris kemaonensis Wall. ex D.Don

Iris kemaonensis is a species in the genus Iris, part of the subgenus Limniris and the series Sibiricae. It is a rhizomatous perennial plant native to the Himalayas, particularly found in the regions of Kumaon in India.

Description

Iris kemaonensis has a robust rhizome that forms dense clumps. The leaves are narrow, linear, and can grow up to 30-60 cm long. The flowering stems are slender and can reach a height of 30-50 cm. The flowers are typically blue or violet, with a characteristic yellow or white signal patch on the falls. The plant blooms in late spring to early summer.

Habitat

This species is found in alpine meadows, open slopes, and forest clearings at altitudes ranging from 2,400 to 4,000 meters. It thrives in well-drained soils and prefers full sun to partial shade.

Distribution

Iris kemaonensis is distributed across the Himalayas, particularly in the regions of Kumaon, Nepal, and Bhutan. It is also found in parts of Tibet and China.

Cultivation

Iris kemaonensis is cultivated for its ornamental value. It requires a well-drained soil and a sunny position. It is hardy to USDA zones 5-8. Propagation is typically done through division of the rhizomes or by seed.

Taxonomy

The species was first described by Nathaniel Wallich and David Don in the early 19th century. The specific epithet kemaonensis refers to the Kumaon region in India where the plant was first discovered.

Uses

While primarily grown for ornamental purposes, Iris kemaonensis has also been used in traditional medicine in some regions.

Conservation

The conservation status of Iris kemaonensis has not been extensively studied, but like many alpine plants, it could be susceptible to habitat loss and climate change.

See also

• Iris (plant)
• List of Iris species
• Flora of the Himalayas