The beauty of this shrub in full flower with its crimson heads is not easily forgotten. Predominantly a subalpine plant it grows in snow gum woodland, sometimes extending to alpine shrubberies and can be up to 8m tall, but often much shorter, with rather few branches. The leaves, clustered towards the ends, are dark green above and paler below. There are persistent fruit cases 5-8 cm long. Seeds may be collected in the autumn and are easy to cultivate.
Cuttings are also possible.
A widespread iris on sandy or rocky places, with fibrous roots and short rhizomes making large tussocks and masses. Leaves are 30-60cm long, narrow, parallel veined and arise from the base of the plant. The flower stalk is tall and smooth with 2-4 erect bracts and two large bracts enclosing the flowers which emerge in succession from the sheath. A spectacular sight in spring and summer. Liliaceae Widespread in open rocky, sandy or grassy areas from sea-level to mountains.