Plantoftheweek IRIS UNGUICULARIS (ALGERIAN IRIS)

IN THE depths of winter, this iris provides colour and fragrance with its sweetly scented flowers. Native to the Mediterranean, I. unguicularis prefers well-drained neutral-toalkaline soil. Plant in September in a sunny, sheltered spot. The best cultivars include dark purple Mary Barnard and pale blue Walter Butt. Note that it is toxic to dogs, cats and horses.