Definition

Noun: 1. A specific species of iris plant: Iris florentina is a type of German iris (a group of bearded irises) known for its large, fragrant white flowers with petals that may have a lavender or bluish tinge, particularly on the falls (the downward-curving petals). Its dried rhizome (rootstalk) is valued for its violet-like fragrance.

Usage Notes

• This is a highly specific botanical term. It is primarily used in scientific, horticultural, or perfumery contexts.
• It is often written in italics () to indicate it is a Latin scientific name.
• The common name "Florentine iris" is also used.

Examples

• Scientific/Horticultural:
  • The garden's historical section features several specimens of Iris florentina.
  • For a classic white bearded iris with fragrance, consider planting Iris florentina.
• Historical/Commercial:
  • The dried rhizome of Iris florentina, known as orris root, has been used in perfumery for centuries.

Advanced Usage

• "Orris root": This is the common name for the dried and aged rhizome of (and some related species like and ). It is used as a fixative in perfumes and potpourri.
  • The perfumer added a note of orris root to give the fragrance a powdery, violet-like base.

Variants and Related Words

• Florentine iris (n): The common English name for .
• Orris (n): A term for the prepared rhizome of the Florentine iris, used in perfumery.
• Iris germanica (n): A closely related and more common species of German iris, often confused with or grouped with in horticulture.
• Rhizome (n): A horizontal, usually underground stem that sends out roots and shoots. This is the part of the plant that is harvested for orris root.

Synonyms

• Florentine iris
• Orris iris

Different Meanings

• This term has no other common meanings outside of botany and its derived uses (perfumery). It is not to be confused with the general word "iris," which refers to the colored part of the eye or the large genus of flowering plants.

Noun

1. German iris having large white flowers with lavender-tinged falls and a fragrant rhizome