Bearded Irises

Iris is the name of the Greek goddess of the Rainbow and of this large genus of beautiful flowers in a range of sizes and a rainbow of colors. Growing from bulbs or fleshy rhizomatous roots, irises are superb for cutting and borders. For all iris, “standards” are the three erect petals; “falls” are the three pendent, reflexed or spreading petals. The blaze of contrasting color is the “crest,” “blotch” or “signal.” Most irises prefer sun or dappled shade with moderately fertile well-drained soil. All bulbous irises we stock prefer dry soils when dormant in summer.

A hardy perennial and fine cutflower, with multiple 3–6" blooms on each flower stalk. Strong sword-shaped foliage. Beards are soft hairs protruding up from the crest of each fall, often in contrasting colors.

Blooming begins in the first real heat of late May or early June. Rebloomers may have a second bloom later in the season depending on climate and cultivation methods (deadheading helps). Plant rhizomes horizontally, less than 1" deep, in clusters with new growth facing outward. Vigorous plants, so give them room to spread. They appreciate light soil and full sun, and require good drainage. May take a year to establish before blooming. Clumps need dividing every 4–5 years. Zone 3–9.