Iris tectorum 'Alba' - White Japanese Roof Iris pickup shade loving ground cover that

shade loving ground cover that is tolerant of dryness when once established

fragrant pale pink flowers produced in summer

This fast growing deciduous twining vine is native to China

Mass clusters of pure white flowers appear in late Spring or early Summer

Iris tectorum 'Alba' - White Japanese Roof Iris pickup shade loving ground cover thatThe white variety of this normally purple iris has an interesting tale. Actually a native to China at some point they made their way to Japan. However owing to a decree by an early emperor during a time of war that only rice and vegetables will be grown in the ground, No Flowers! The ever resourceful Japanese grew these in their thatched roof, hence the name. A slow grower, they prefer moist soils in part sun.