Species

3 other cultivars

perennial

Yunnan Form Blackberry Lily

Belamcanda chinensis 'Yunnan Form'

The Story

Plant Bio

Iris domestica, formerly Belamcanda chinensis, is a rhizomatous perennial commonly called blackberry lily. It features iris-like, sword-shaped leaves and lily-like, orange flowers with red spots. After flowering, the seed capsules split open to reveal clusters of black seeds that resemble blackberries, providing fall and winter interest.

The 'Yunnan Form' is a seed strain from the Yunnan province of China, noted for being a particularly vigorous and floriferous form of the species.

Uses & Benefits:

Vivid orange flowers create a striking visual impact, perfect for tropical or exotic-themed gardens.

Drought tolerant and low-maintenance, ideal for water-wise gardening.

Attracts hummingbirds and butterflies, supporting local pollinators.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

30 inches

Width

12 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10

Water

Low to moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Asia

Toxicity

All parts are poisonous if ingested, especially the rhizomes.

Bloom period

Mid-summer – Late summer

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in spring
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not soggy
Place in full sun for optimal flowering
Fertilize lightly in early spring with balanced fertilizer
Divide clumps every 3–4 years in early spring
Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds

Pro Tip

Ensure soil drains well to prevent bulb rot and promote healthy growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water during dry spells 🌱
Divide clumps every few years
Fertilize annually in spring
Mulch to conserve moisture

Don't

Overwater to avoid bulb rot ❌
Skip dividing to prevent overcrowding
Use heavy clay soil without amendments ❌
Neglect winter protection in colder zones

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Divide
Fertilize
Harvest
Plant
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Bright, tropical borderButterfly and hummingbird gardenContainer display with exotic flair

Companion Plants

Lavender SalviaOrnamental grasses Yarrow Echinacea

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Yunnan Form Blackberry Lily questions

What zones can Yunnan Form Blackberry Lily grow in?

Yunnan Form Blackberry Lily is hardy in USDA Zones 5–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Yunnan Form Blackberry Lily deer resistant?

Yes — Yunnan Form Blackberry Lily is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Yunnan Form Blackberry Lily bloom?

Yunnan Form Blackberry Lily typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Yunnan Form Blackberry Lily need full sun?

Yunnan Form Blackberry Lily does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Yunnan Form Blackberry Lily drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Yunnan Form Blackberry Lily handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.