Blackberry Lily Bare Roots (Iris domestica) – Perennial Plants

Add an unusual perennial to your garden with blackberry lily, Iris domestica, formerly known as Belamcanda chinensis. Also called leopard lily, this plant belongs to the iris family rather than the true lilies. Its distinctive blackberry-like seed clusters give it its memorable common name.

Plant Highlights

• Botanical name: Iris domestica, synonym Belamcanda chinensis.
• Common names: Blackberry lily and leopard lily.
• Type: Short-lived perennial in the iris family.
• Origin: East Asia, including parts of Russia, China, and Japan; not a US-native wildflower.
• Hardiness: The supplied growing information lists USDA zones 5–10a. Winter survival depends on local conditions and drainage.

Available Bare-Root Packs

• 1 bare root
• 3 bare roots
• 10 bare roots

Select your preferred quantity before adding to cart. This listing is for bare-root planting material, not seeds, potted plants, or true lily bulbs.

Planting and Position

Plant when the soil is workable and not frozen, avoiding extreme weather during establishment. Choose a sunny to partially sunny location with well-drained soil rather than deep shade. Prepare a hole large enough to accommodate the roots without crowding, and follow any planting-depth instructions included with your order.

Water after planting to settle the soil around the roots. Avoid planting in a low spot where water collects.

Growing and Care

Keep the soil moderately moist while new growth establishes, but do not leave roots waterlogged. Maintain good drainage and airflow around plants. As a short-lived perennial, longevity and flowering can vary with climate, planting time, and care.

After Flowering

Leave decorative seed heads for seasonal interest if desired, or remove them before seeds disperse to limit self-sowing. Trim dead foliage as needed and keep the planting area tidy.

Ornamental Use Only

Despite the name, the blackberry-like seed clusters are not edible berries. Do not eat the seeds, roots, or other plant parts. This product is sold for ornamental planting, not medicinal use. Keep planting material away from children and pets.