Iris is a genus of 260 to 300 species from perennial plant in the Iris family Iridacea gets its name from the Greek goddess of rainbow Irida where as the Greek root word for a rainbow refers to the wide variety of flower colors among the many species. The at least 28 inches tall, beautiful, bearded irises known as Iris Germanica, with purple flowers, Iris Pallida and Iris Florentina with white flowers are the most popular species of irises and are used in aromatherapy and medicine. Iris is a symbol of Florence, Italy, and is the French royal standard fleur-de-elis. Iris are widely distributed throughout the North Temperate Zone where their habitats range from cold regions to the grassy slopes, meadow lands and rivers of Europe, North Africa, the Middle East, across North America and Asia. Irises are extensively grown as ornamental plants in botanical gardens and in homes. The rhizomes or root of Iris Pallida or Sweet Iris and German Iris also known as Iris Germanica are used in perfume and medicine that is more common in ancient times than today. The preparation of iris root and production of Iris essential oil takes an extensive time and labor-consuming process. Iridis Rhizoma or orris root are harvested, perfectly cleaned, cut, dried and aged for 5 years. The aged iris rhizomes are steamed-distilled producing thick oily compound that is valuable in the perfume industry and commonly known as the “iris butter”. Iris essential oil doesn’t loose quality for years and is one of the strongest oils. Iris fragrance is said to be similar to violets that are fragile and beautiful. Iris aroma is soft, a little bit cold, mystical, elegant and languorous which is good for meditations. It’s a shady pair to rose and jasmine. Iris is associated with faith, hope, promise in love, cherished friendship, and wisdom.
