Blackberry lily (Iris domestica)

Also known as: Leopard flower

Blackberry lily (Iris domestica), also known as leopard lily, is a herbaceous perennial that reaches heights of 61 to 91 cm. Its fan-shaped leaves resemble those of a gladiolus, and it produces striking orange flowers with speckles, blooming from summer to early fall. For ideal growth, plant it in full sun and ensure the soil is well-drained.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Blackberry lily

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

60 cm to 90 cm

Spread

25 cm to 60 cm

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

4 cm to 5 cm

Flower Color

Orange Yellow Red Pink Purple

Images of Blackberry lily

Quickly Identify Blackberry lily

Vibrant orange flowers with distinct red spots and yellow centers

Unique blackberry-like fruit capsules opening to reveal glossy black seeds

Erect fan-shaped leaves resembling iris leaves, up to 10 inches (25 cm) long

Slender wire-like stems, about 1/4 inch (0.6 cm) diameter, green to reddish

Summer blooming perennial reaching 2-4 feet (60-120 cm) in height

Scientific Classification of Blackberry lily

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Monocotyledons

Order

Asparagales

Family

Iris

Genus

Irises

Species

Blackberry lily

Planting and Growing of Blackberry lily

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 4 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

4-8 hours

Ideal Temperature

65-75℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

Once a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Blackberry lily?

The Iris domestica should be watered thoroughly, ensuring the soil is evenly moistened but not waterlogged. Use approximately 500 ml of water per session, making sure excess water drains away fully and the top inch of soil dries out between waterings.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Blackberry lily? ›

What should I do if my Blackberry lily is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Blackberry lily? ›

How to save an overwatered Blackberry lily? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Blackberry lily?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 6 to 8 hours

Prefers full to partial sun; exposure to direct sunlight enhances bloom while sufficient partial light supports consistent growth and helps maintain healthy foliage.

Importance of Sunlight ›

Solutions for Ideal Light ›

Effects of Ideal Lighting ›

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Blackberry lily?

Ideal Temperature: 65 ~ 75℉

Iris domestica thrives best in moderate temperatures ranging from 65°F to 75°F. This range ensures optimal growth and flowering by providing the right balance of warmth without overheating the plant. These temperatures mimic its native habitat conditions, allowing it to carry out photosynthesis efficiently and maintain healthy metabolic processes.

What Soil is Best for Blackberry lily?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Iris domestica thrives in well-draining soil because it prevents waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. Ensuring that excess water drains away helps maintain healthy root systems. Incorporating organic matter into the soil provides essential nutrients and improves soil structure, benefiting Iris domestica by promoting robust growth and flowering. Iris domestica prefers a neutral to slightly acidic pH, ideally between 6.5 and 7.5, as it allows for optimal nutrient absorption, ensuring vibrant blooms and healthy foliage.

How to Fertilize Blackberry lily?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Iris domestica, use a balanced liquid fertilizer at half strength for optimal growth. This approach provides essential nutrients without overwhelming the plant. Be cautious of over-fertilization as it can lead to root burn.

How to Prune Blackberry lily?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer, Autumn

Start by removing any dead or yellowing leaves at the base, which helps prevent disease and allows the plant to focus energy on new growth. Next, trim back spent flower stalks to encourage more blooms. Use sharp, sterilized scissors or pruning shears for clean cuts to avoid injuring the plant.

How to Propagate Blackberry lily plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early spring, Late spring

For seed propagation, collect mature seeds from ripe pods and store them in a cool, dry place. Prior to planting, it's beneficial to soak them overnight to enhance germination rates.

Choose a healthy, disease-free plant and take a cutting of about 4-6 inches in length. Ensure to cut just below a node and remove any leaves from the bottom half of the cutting.

In the spring, divide large, mature Iris domestica clumps by gently digging up the plant. Carefully separate the rhizomes, ensuring each division has roots and leaves attached, to facilitate successful replanting.

How to Repot Blackberry lily plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

You should consider repotting your Iris domestica when you notice slow growth or roots emerging from the bottom of the pot. Ideally, perform this task in the spring or autumn when the plant is not in a peak flowering phase. These seasons provide optimal conditions for root recovery, minimizing stress and enhancing growth potential.

Select a pot that is 2-3 inches larger in diameter than the current one, with ample drainage holes. A clay pot is often preferable because it allows moisture to evaporate, reducing the risk of root rot. The pot's increased size accommodates new growth, ensuring the plant has room to thrive.

Opt for a well-draining, loamy soil mix. This ensures that water doesn't sit around the roots, which could cause rot. A mix with organic matter will support healthy root growth and provide the necessary nutrients for vibrant foliage and blooms, promoting the overall health of the plant.

Toxicity of Blackberry lily

Is Blackberry lily toxic to cat?

The blackberry lily poses a toxicity risk to cats. If accidentally consumed, the fruits, leaves, or roots of the blackberry lily can lead to poisoning in felines. Symptoms may include physical discomfort, particularly gastrointestinal disturbances or irritations. It is crucial to observe any alterations in behavior or health and to immediately consult a veterinary professional if there is a suspicion that a cat has ingested blackberry lily.

Is Blackberry lily toxic to dog?

Blackberry lily is recognized as a toxic species when it comes to dogs. If dogs consume any portions of this plant, especially its fruits, leaves, or roots, they may experience poisoning. Symptoms of poisoning may include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or more serious indications depending on the quantity ingested. Given the potential dangers posed by blackberry lily, it is essential for dog owners to keep a vigilant eye on their pets and to restrict their access to this plant. Should a dog consume any section of the blackberry lily, it is critical to obtain immediate veterinary assistance to secure the best possible outcome for the animal.

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.