Xiphion

a genus of plants of the family Iridaceae (frequently included in the genus Iris). They are perennial grasses with bulbs composed of three to seven fleshy, distinct segments; during summer dormancy, the roots die. The leaves are narrowly canaliculate. The stem measures 30–80 cm long and bears two or three flowers. The flowers are large with a corolliform perianth of six segments. There are three stamens, a three-lobed style, and an inferior ovary with three cells and many seeds. There are six species of Xiphion, found in the northwestern Mediterranean Region. Floriculturists refer to these plants as “Dutch,” “English,” and “Spanish” bulbous irises. The plants are forced and used for cuttings. The species of Xiphion are propagated from both seeds and bulbs. Seedlings produce flowers in the third, fourth, or fifth season.