Dietes is a genus of 6 species of rhizomatous plants in the family Iridaceae, native to southern and central Africa, with the exception of one species, the Dietes robinsoniana, which is endemic to Lord Howe Island off the coast of Australia.
Dietes produces narrow, sword-like foliage and large iris-like flowers on tall wiry stems. It is a versatile plant that can be used for borders, water gardens and mass plantings.
Name meaning
The genus name comes from the Greek words “di”, meaning “two”, and “etes”, which means“an associate”. It literally means “having two relatives” and refers to the relationship between this genus and Moraea and Iris.
Dietes symbolism
Dietes means good fortune.
Interesting facts about Dietes
Dietes and Related Genera
The genus is closely related to the African genus Moraea and to the widespread Northern Hemisphere genus Iris.
Fairy Iris (Dietes grandiflora)
Dietes grandiflora is also known as “Fairy Iris” because the fragile white petals, which resemble fairy wings, have a tendency to magically disappear very quickly!
It is a popular landscaping plant due to its reliability and tolerance to cold. This is a hardy, long lived species excellent for mass-planting or as a foliage contrast plant.
Fortnight Lily (Dietes iridioides)
Dietes iridioides is commonly known as “Fortnight Lily” because of its two-week blooming cycle.
It produces many flowers from spring to late summer, with a fortnight (two weeks) of rest between the next flowering. The flowers are similar to those of Dietes grandiflora, but smaller.
Benefits and Uses of Dietes
Dietes is used in traditional medicine to treat cold, flu, headache, toothache, malaria, bruise and various infections.
Dietes Plant Data
Plant Type:
Perennials
Color:
The flowers are white to creamy yellow in color, with brown, yellow and purple markings on the tepals.
Hardiness Zones:
8-11
Blooms in:
Spring, Autumn, Winter, Summer
Height:
This plant grows up to 150 cm (5 ft) tall.
Soil needs:
They are not fussy about soil type, but will perform best in rich, moist and well drained soil.