Libertia peregrinansMikoikoi, New Zealand Iris A small, loosely clustering, lily-like plant native to the North and South Islands of New Zealand, Stewart Island and the Chatham Islands, where it grows in moist or boggy soils at low elevation, mostly near the coast. The stiff, flat leaves are arranged in small fans and exhibit a beautiful dark, coppery orange color when grown in full sun, particularly along the leaf midribs. The short inflorescences hold many pretty, small, white flowers. While its populations are declining in its native habitat, it is a very easy plant in cultivation and a popular ornamental, suitable for a range of temperate climates and tolerating fairly severe freezes. Seeds germinate quickly without prior treatment. |