Overview

Libertia ixioides is a perennial in the genus Libertia, part of the Iridaceae family. Libertia ixioides grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates well-drained soils. Suggested uses include borders, rock gardens and ground cover. It is native to New Zealand.

About

Libertia ixioides is a perennial in the iris family native to New Zealand, commonly called the New Zealand iris or mikoikoi. Noted for its summer flowering, it blooms in the UK from June to August. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and performs in full sun or partial shade. Plant it in borders, rock gardens or to form a ground cover sweep.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Libertia ixioides

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 4.0 — Libertia

In the garden

Libertia ixioides belongs to the Iridaceae and comes from New Zealand, where it occupies a range of coastal to montane sites. In cultivation it is grown for its summer display, flowering in the UK from June to August, and for the way it fills gaps in low planting schemes. Choose a spot that receives full sun or partial shade and provides moist but well-drained soil; the combination is important because the plant favours steady moisture without waterlogging. Prepare planting holes with good drainage and incorporate organic matter into heavier soils to improve structure. Once established, occasional watering through dry spells will help keep soils evenly moist. Where it works in a UK garden: use Libertia ixioides at the front of mixed borders, tucked into rock gardens, or as a low ground cover between larger perennials. The summer blooms suit edging roles and gravel garden situations where intermittent moisture is available. Position plants where their flowering period — June to August — can be appreciated alongside taller summer perennials for contrast and sequence in the border.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Libertia

Sunlight

full sun, partial shade

Soil type

well-drained

Soil moisture

moist

Plant details

Libertia ixioides size, habit and characteristics

Plant type

perennial

Suggested uses

borders, rock gardens, ground cover

Native to

New Zealand

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Libertia ixioides

Cultivation

Prefers moist, well-drained soil and can tolerate some shade. Suitable for garden cultivation in temperate climates.

Pruning

Remove dead or damaged leaves to maintain appearance.

Propagation

Division in spring or autumn

Frequently asked questions