The Temperate Database is in the process of being updated, with new records being added and old ones being checked and brought up to date where necessary. This record has not yet been checked and updated.

Common Name:

General Information

Iris kemaonensis is a perennial plant that can grow up to 0.45 metres tall.
It is harvested from the wild for local use as a medicine..

Known Hazards

Many plants in this genus are thought to be poisonous if ingested, so caution is advised[]. The roots are especially likely to be toxic[].
Plants can cause skin irritations and allergies in some people[].

Botanical References

,

Range

E. Asia - Himalayas from India to Bhutan and western China.

Habitat

Alpine pastures at elevations of 3500 - 4200 metres[].

Properties

Medicinal Rating
Habit	Perennial
Height	0.45 m
Pollinators	Insects
Self-fertile	Yes
Cultivation Status	Wild

Cultivation Details

Requires a sunny position and a well-drained soil containing lime[]. Prefers a pH between 6 and 7.5 or higher[].
The rhizome is compact and non-stoloniferous[].
Closely related to Iris dolichosiphon[].
Members of this genus are rarely if ever troubled by browsing deer or rabbits[].

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal

The flowers are used in Tibetan medicine, they are said to have an acrid taste and a cooling potency[]. They are analgesic and ophthalmic, being used in the treatment of tinnitus, pain in the ears and weakening of the eyesight[].
The seeds are also used in Tibetan medicine, they are said to have an acrid taste and a heating potency[]. They are analgesic, anthelmintic and vermifuge[]. They are used in the treatment of colic pain due to intestinal worms, hot and cold disorders of the stomach and intestines, and pain below the neck and shoulders[].
The leaves and roots are used in the treatment of fevers[].

Other Uses

None known

Propagation

Seed - best sown as soon as it is ripe in a cold frame. Stored seed should be sown as early in the year as possible in a cold frame. Prick out the seedlings into individual pots when they are large enough to handle and grow them on in the greenhouse or cold frame for their first year. Plant out into their permanent positions in late spring or early summer.
Division, best done after flowering, though it can be done at almost any time. Very easy, larger clumps can be replanted direct into their permanent positions, though it is best to pot up smaller clumps and grow them on in a cold frame until they are rooting well. Plant them out in the spring.