Overview

Libertia grandiflora is a clump forming, columnar upright perennial in the genus Libertia, part of the Iridaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Libertia grandiflora grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include flower borders and beds and underplanting of roses and shrubs. It is native to New Zealand North and New Zealand South.

About

Libertia grandiflora, commonly known as mikoikoi and the New Zealand iris, is a species of flowering plant in the family Iridaceae. It is endemic to New Zealand; its range covers the North Island.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0Libertia grandiflora

About the genus

Libertia is a genus of monocotyledonous plants in the family Iridaceae, first described as a genus in 1824. It is native to South America, Australia, New Guinea, and New Zealand. Eight species are endemic to New Zealand.

Wikipedia contributors, "Libertia", CC BY-SA 4.0Libertia

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Libertia

Sunlight
Full sun
Soil type
Loam
Soil pH
Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained
Aspect
South-facing
Exposure
Sheltered
UK hardiness
H4

Plant details

Libertia grandiflora size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
Perennial
Habit
Clump forming, Columnar upright
Foliage
Evergreen
Suggested uses
Flower borders and beds, Underplanting of roses and shrubs
Native to
New Zealand North, New Zealand South

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Libertia grandiflora

Cultivation
Prefers moist, well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade; tolerant of coastal conditions
Pruning
Remove dead or damaged leaves in early spring to maintain appearance
Propagation
Seed, Division in spring
Pest resistance
Generally pest-free
Disease resistance
Generally disease-free

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Libertia grandiflora?

Prefers moist, well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade; tolerant of coastal conditions.

Where is the best place to plant Libertia grandiflora?

Libertia grandiflora prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Libertia grandiflora need?

Libertia grandiflora grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.

How do I prune Libertia grandiflora?

Remove dead or damaged leaves in early spring to maintain appearance.

Is Libertia grandiflora hardy in the UK?

Libertia grandiflora has an RHS hardiness rating of H4, meaning it is hardy through an average UK winter, tolerating -10 to -5°C.

How do I propagate Libertia grandiflora?

Seed, Division in spring.