It is native to Southern China and Myanmar (Burma),[2] growing in meadows, streamsides, hillsides and forest margins.

The outer tepals, or falls, usually have narrow golden yellow central stripes.

[4] Iris chrysographes requires a neutral or acid soil, in full sun.

This plant has gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.

[4][5] Some cultivars are grown, mainly "black" flowered clones under names such as 'Black Beauty', 'Black Knight',[6] 'Black' (syn.