Iridaceae

High school (ages 12+)
Animals & Nature

Name:

Date:

Step 1 · Read the article

Open the article and read it at the level above. Then answer the questions below in your own words.

https://smallwhale.org/articles/iridaceae

Write what each word means, using the article.

Do not copy the article. Write two things you learned, the way you would explain them to a friend.

Answers below are taken from the article’s stored facts, so they match what the student read.

1. What is the scientific name?Iridaceae
2. What is the primary underground organs?Bulbs, corms, and rhizomes, facilitating perennial survival and vegetative propagation
3. What makes iris flowers special?Iris flowers have three petals and three sepals that look the same, called tepals. They can have pretty patterns, spurs, or crests that help attract pollinators.
4. Why do iris plants have sword-shaped leaves?The leaves are usually sword-shaped and arranged in two opposite rows, which helps the plant grow efficiently and stay strong.

Ensiform leaves: Leaves that are long, stiff, and shaped like a sword, characteristic of many Iridaceae species.
Pollination syndromes: The set of floral traits that have evolved in response to the attraction of specific pollinators, such as bees or birds.
Cape Floristic Region: A globally significant area in South Africa known for its exceptionally high plant diversity, including many Iridaceae species.