October 5, 2026
Over the years I have realized it is important to plant things in my yard and gardens that are native. This is something that is very important to me, and yet, I do allow myself, from time to time, to stray from that dedication. Blackberry Lily (Iris domestica) is one of those exceptions. Not native here, but native to central and eastern Asia.
It has been growing here in my yard for many many years, giving me delight as it goes through its many stages of life. This photo, above, shows its seed stage. Those pods open as the seeds become ready, revealing why it is called Blackberry Lily.
Thomas Jefferson recorded planting Blackberry Lily seeds in a flower bed at Monticello in 1807. He noted that he received the seeds from Philadelphia nurseryman Bernard McMahon.
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