Apothecary

Orris Root.

Iris germanica / Iris florentina

Also known as Queen Elizabeth Root, Florentine Iris, Love Drawing Powder

ElementWaterPlanetVenusZodiacLibraChakraHeart

The dried rhizome of the iris, named for the rainbow goddess who carried messages between heaven and earth. Powdered into a fine dust, orris root is the classic love-drawing powder of Hoodoo and old European folk magic — the small perfumed agent of attraction.

Orris Root — botanical illustration

Correspondences

Element

Water

Planet

Venus

Zodiac

Libra

Chakra

Heart

Parts Used

Dried root (rhizome)

Harvest

Year-round (dried)

Practice

Magical Properties

Love, attraction, beauty, divination, protection

One of the classic love-drawing roots. Powder orris root and use as a perfumed dusting powder to attract love. Add to sachets and spell bags for attraction. Use in beauty and glamour magic.

Mundane

Mundane Uses

Used extensively in perfumery (violet scent). Historical diuretic use.

Devotion

Deity Associations

Iris, Juno, Venus

History

Folklore & History

The iris was the Greek goddess who carried messages between heaven and earth. Called 'Queen Elizabeth Root' in the Americas. Used to scent Elizabethan clothes.

Safety

Safety Notes

Contact allergies possible. Avoid internal use.

This information is provided for educational and magical reference only. Always consult a qualified practitioner before using herbs medicinally.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Orris Root used for in witchcraft?

Orris Root is traditionally used in workings for love, attraction, beauty, divination, protection. One of the classic love-drawing roots.

What element is Orris Root associated with?

Orris Root is associated with the Water element and the sign of Libra, and resonates with the Heart chakra.

What planet rules Orris Root?

Orris Root is ruled by Venus. In the classical planetary system, this gives the herb its characteristic energetic signature and indicates which workings it most readily amplifies and which planetary hours best suit it.

Is Orris Root safe to use?

Some care is required when working with Orris Root. Contact allergies possible. Avoid internal use. The information here is provided for educational and magical reference only — always consult a qualified practitioner before using any herb medicinally.

In Your Practice

Track your work with Orris Root.

Record spells, rituals, and observations in your private digital grimoire.

Related

More Water Herbs

Be among the first

Grimoire is now available on Android. Join the waitlist to be notified when iOS launches.