Iris is the common name for plants of the genus Iris of the family Iridaceae, a family of perennial herbs that includes the crocus, freesia, and gladiolus. The family is typified by modified stems and linear or sword-shaped leaves. The iris is distributed worldwide except in the coldest regions. The family is closely related to the lily and amaryllis families. Cultivated irises, freesias, and gladioli show a wide variety of colors in their usually perfumed blossoms. The many species of wild iris are often called flags. Orrisroot, a violet -scented flavoring used in tooth powders, perfumes, and other products, is made from the powdered rhizomes of several European species.