About
A rhizomatous herbaceous perennial, to 70cm in height, with grey-green, strap-like leaves and scented flowers in summer. Flowers are pale-purple, to lilac-purple, with a purple-veined area of white around the yellow beard.
About the genus
Iris may be rhizomatous or bulbous perennials, with narrow leaves and erect stems bearing flowers with 3 large spreading or pendent fall petals, alternating with 3 erect, often smaller, standard petals, in late winter, spring or early summer
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeLoam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitTufted
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden
FragranceFlower
ToxicityHarmful if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. Pets: Harmful if eaten. For further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
Care notes
CultivationGrow in well-drained, fertile, neutral to slightly acid soil in full sun; sun on the rhizomes will help to encourage flowering. See also bearded iris cultivation
PruningRemove any dying foliage in autumn, old flower stems can be cut down after flowering. Tall cultivars can have their leaf fans trimmed to one third of the total height to reduce wind rock while the plants are establishing
PropagationPropagate by division of rhizomes from midsummer to early autumn; see dividing irises
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to slugs, snails and thrips
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to aphid-borne viruses, bacterial soft rot and grey moulds; see Iris diseases