Growing Hermodactylus Tuberosus

Select a planting location in full sun with somewhat alkaline soil (high pH). The soil should be moderately fertile and well-draining, ideally in a semi-sheltered location to protect from strong wind. Widow irises can thrive even in poor, chalky soil. To improve drainage, mix sand in with the soil.

Plant tubers in soil at a depth of 4 inches during fall or early spring and cover with soil. When obtaining tubers for planting, select firm and plump ones rather than those that are withered or dry. These plants can also grow in containers.

Provide plenty of moisture, especially during fall and winter, if rainfall is not plentiful. Allow the soil to dry out and get lots of sun in the summertime. Foliage may die down during these hot, dry times. These conditions are similar to the Mediterranean climate with which this plant is familiar.

Divide tubers in summer when they become dense and clumped. Widow iris grows with creeping tuberous roots that appear in a finger-like fashion. Its name means "Finger of Hermes," which is meant to describe this root system. Flowering colonies take about a year to develop after planting.

Apply mulch around roots of the plant to protect them during the wintertime.