It was verified as Iris susiana by the United States Department of Agriculture and the Agricultural Research Service on 4 April 2003. Distribution and habitat Iris susiana is endemic to Lebanon, Turkey and Syria. It grows in mountainous terrain, typically on eastern slopes in rocky areas. Cultivation Irises can generally be propagated by division. Iris susiana can be grown in sunny nooks within a rock garden, on sheltered banks or in borders. It needs light, warmth and well-drained soil. Toxicity Like many other irises, most parts of the plant (including the rhizome and leaves) are poisonous. If ingested, it can cause stomach pains and vomiting. Handling the plant may cause a skin irritation or an allergic reaction in some individuals. Culture The Taj Mahal in India has images of Iris susiana carved from stone. References Other sources Aldén, B., S. Ryman, & M. Hjertson. 2012. Svensk Kulturväxtdatabas, SKUD (Swedish Cultivated and Utility Plants Database; online resource) www.skud.info Georges Tohme& Henriette Tohme, Illustrated Flora of Lebanon, National Council For Scientific Research, Second Edition 2014. Mathew, B. 1981. The Iris. 59. susiana Flora of Lebanon Flora of Turkey