Iridaceae

  

 

Genera : 70 - 80

Species: 1500 - 1800

To Genus Directories:

 

Distribution: Worldwide, but with a great diversity in Africa and in South Africa in particular.

Economic Uses: The family is important as the source of the most expensive of spices; saffron, which comes from the anthers of one species. It also contains the cultivated ornamentals; crocus, gladiolus, iris and freesia. The root of some species is used in the making of perfume and cosmetics and is called 'orris root'.

Defining Features of Interest: The family is definately liliaceous, but is unique in having showy, petaloid stigmas and three stamens.

Fossil Evidence: No known fossil record.