How to Grow an African Iris

Select a planting site that has dappled shade to full sun. The soil should be well draining, and can be of any composition. Break up the soil with a hand spade or tiller at a depth of 6 inches in the spring, after the last frost.

Plant the rhizomes at a depth of 1 inch. Space the rhizomes 24 to 36 inches apart. Water until the soil settles. Rhizomes are the horizontal, underground stem of the plant that produces roots.

Maintain a regular watering schedule during the growing season. Water frequently enough to keep the soil moist to the touch. During the winter, allow the soil to become dry between waterings.

Apply a general-purpose flower fertilizer to the soil one to two times during the growing season, with the first application at planting time. Follow package directions for application instructions.

Cut back old flower stalks after the flowers fade. Cut off any leaves that become brown during colder weather.

Apply a 2-inch layer of organic mulch on the soil around the African iris during winter. This will protect the roots from cold temperatures. Remove the mulch in the spring.

Dig up the plant once every 3 years to divide the clumps of rhizomes. They will separate into separate plants easily in your hands. Replant the separated rhizomes in your desired spots.