Aristea abyssinica,  a perennial herb that is 12-30 cm tall, is often of much smaller size than related species, especially at higher altitudes. Leaves several, linear  and the  lowers are borne on terminal branches.

This tufted, miniature blue iris is common on rocky outcrops, grasslands and moist areas. It has a very long flowering season, starting in Spring. It looks stunning interplanted with small grasses such as Sporobolus satfianus and Eragrostis racemosa. Plant in a well drained soil.