Pest identification
What's eating my stinking iris?
Aphids
Signs: Soft colonies on flower stems and undersides of leaves; honeydew and sooty mold; weakened flower production
Control: Spray with insecticidal soap or water; encourage natural predators; infestations rarely severe on this species
Slugs & Snails
Signs: Holes in young emerging leaves; seedlings chewed at base; slime trails on foliage
Control: Use iron phosphate slug pellets; hand-pick after dark; reduce hiding spots by clearing debris
Iris Borer (Macronoctua onusta — North America)
Signs: Notching and water-soaked streaks on leaves; larvae tunnel into rhizome causing rot
Control: Clear dead foliage in autumn; apply nematodes in spring; cut out any infested rhizome sections
Keep stinking iris pest-free
Healthy plants resist pests best. Get the basics right:
Stinking Iris pests — FAQ
What is eating my stinking iris?
Stinking Iris (Iris foetidissima) is notably tough and pest-resistant but can be attacked by aphids on flower stalks, and slugs may nibble young foliage. In North America iris borer is a risk. Its colorful seed pods attract birds. Overall one of the least pest-prone irises; shade and damp sites suit it well.
How do I get rid of aphids on stinking iris?
Soft colonies on flower stems and undersides of leaves; honeydew and sooty mold; weakened flower production Spray with insecticidal soap or water; encourage natural predators; infestations rarely severe on this species
How do I get rid of slugs & snails on stinking iris?
Holes in young emerging leaves; seedlings chewed at base; slime trails on foliage Use iron phosphate slug pellets; hand-pick after dark; reduce hiding spots by clearing debris
How do I get rid of iris borer (macronoctua onusta — north america) on stinking iris?
Notching and water-soaked streaks on leaves; larvae tunnel into rhizome causing rot Clear dead foliage in autumn; apply nematodes in spring; cut out any infested rhizome sections