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Dietes bicolor (Bicolor Iris)

5 from 2 customers

Fortnight Lily, Wild Yellow Iris, Bicolor Iris, Butterfly Flag, Peacock Flower

Dietes bicolor, commonly known as Bicolor Iris or Yellow Wild Iris, is a hardy, clump-forming perennial with pale yellow flowers marked with brown-purple blotches. It grows to around 60–90 cm tall and spreads gradually, making it ideal for borders, mass planting, and low-maintenance gardens in New Zealand. This evergreen plant thrives in full sun to partial shade and tolerates drought, light frosts, and coastal conditions. Its attractive sword-like leaves provide year-round structure and appeal.

Dietes bicolor elegant flower.
Dietes bicolor elegant and colourful flower.
Dietes bicolor flower amidst lush, dark green foliage.
A garden bed with a mass planting of Dietes bicolor.

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Suited to regions:All regions
Plant type:Perennials
Height:70 cm
Spread:40 cm
Flowering time:Spring, Summer
Tolerances:Coastal, Extended dry periods, Hardy
Garden uses:Borders, Living areas, Paths & Steps, Pool areas
Garden styles:Architectural, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern
Easy to grow?Yes
Maintenance requirementsLow
Growth rateMedium
Also known asFortnight Lily, Wild Yellow Iris, Bicolor Iris, Butterfly Flag, Peacock Flower
Sku11309

Growing Dietes bicolor Successfully in NZ

To grow Dietes bicolor successfully in New Zealand, plant it in a sunny to partially shaded position with well-drained soil. It tolerates drought, light frosts, and coastal conditions, making it ideal for low-maintenance gardens. Water regularly during the establishment phase, then only during extended dry periods. Apply a slow-release fertiliser in spring to encourage flowering. Remove spent flower stalks and trim back old foliage to keep the plant tidy. Divide clumps every few years to maintain vigour.

Dietes bicolor Care Tips

Plant in full sun to partial shade with well-drained soil. Water regularly while establishing, then only during prolonged dry spells. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertiliser in spring to support healthy growth and flowering. Remove spent flower stems and trim old leaves to maintain a tidy appearance. Divide clumps every few years to prevent overcrowding and rejuvenate growth. Hardy and low-maintenance, Dietes bicolor is ideal for NZ gardens, including coastal and exposed sites.

Plant Size and Spacing

Dietes bicolor typically grows to 60–90 cm tall and about 60 cm wide. When planting, space plants approximately 50–70 cm apart to allow for natural clump expansion and good airflow. This spacing works well for borders, mass planting, or lining paths, ensuring each plant has room to thrive while creating a dense, attractive display over time.

Why Buy Dietes bicolor from The Plant Company

Buy Dietes bicolor from The Plant Company for vigorous, nursery-raised plants that are ready to thrive in New Zealand gardens. Our plants are carefully cultivated to produce healthy roots and vigorous growth, ensuring reliable performance in a wide range of conditions. With fast, nationwide delivery and expert care advice, The Plant Company makes it easy to enjoy the long-lasting beauty and low-maintenance benefits of Dietes bicolor in borders, mass plantings, or low-care garden designs.

What is the common name for Dietes bicolor?

The common names for Dietes bicolor include Yellow Wild Iris, Butterfly Flag, Fortnight Lily, African Iris, and Peacock Flower. "Yellow Wild Iris" is the most common name for this plant.

Questions and Answers

Have a question about Dietes bicolor (Fortnight Lily)? We are here to help.

Reviews

5 from 2 customers
Robert Hodgkinson - Auckland

Superb quality plants.

Greg Skokandich - Canterbury

Excellent value and excellent company to deal with

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