Iris

About the Iris

Named after the Greek goddess of the rainbow. The fleur-de-lis, a stylized iris, has been the symbol of French royalty since the 12th century. Orris root, derived from iris rhizomes, is one of the most expensive botanical products and essential in perfumery. They have been depicted in Egyptian palace frescoes and Japanese art for centuries. Over 300 species. The rhizome of some species can remain dormant for years before sprouting. They are the state flower of Tennessee. The iris is the source of the saying fleur-de-lis, literally flower of the lily, though it depicts an iris.