Plant African iris in part sun or dappled shade and well-drained soil. They will also do well if exposed to direct morning sun or late evening sun. Fertilize the plants three times a year starting in the spring then once in the summer and then again in the late fall.  Amend the soil with some peat and topsoil if needed to give these beauties a good start.  Trim off the spent stalks and clean out the bottom of the plant of any dead leaves that might accumulate there.