6 iris for winter interest

I. unguicularis

Sweetly scented, 3in (7cm) pale lilacblue flowers with yellow flashes are carried on white tubes for many months. The easiest to find in nurseries, Algerian iris can be slow to establish but the results are worth the wait. H: 6in (15cm).

Iris foetidissima

Dull bluish-yellow flowers among rich, dark and very tough evergreen leaves, followed in autumn and winter by large pods lined with bright-scarlet berries. White and yellow-berried forms exist, but these are rare. H: 11⁄2ft (45cm).

I. unguicularis ‘Peloponnese Snow’

Pure-white flowers – with blue veins towards the base of the petals and a vivid-orange flash – are held above, rather than among, the leaves. Very striking, and more vigorous than previous white varieties. H: 10in (25cm).

I. foetidissima ‘Variegata’

The dark-green foliage is brightly striped in white and grey, creating a valuable winter feature. Good in full shade, even dry shade. Unfortunately, this variety rarely flowers or fruits. H: 11⁄2ft (45cm).

I. unguicularis ‘mary Barnard’ AGm

Deep purplish-blue flowers, with a bright golden flash on each petal. The darkest of all the varieties, it is at its peak in February. Has unusually narrow leaves so the flowers are shown off well. H: 6in (15cm).

Iris foetidissima var. citrina

Features much improved, less dingy, clearer-yellow flowers – and more of them. This plentiful flower production leads to more prolific fruiting, and so a more colourful winter display of orange berries. H: 11⁄2ft (45cm).