About
This rhizomatous, herbaceous perennial, up to 86cm high in flower, with glaucous, sword-shaped leaves and tan markings over a yellow base, flowering in late May.
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, Chalk, Sand
Soil pHAlkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitClump forming, Columnar upright
FoliageSemi evergreen, Evergreen
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesMediterranean climate plants, Gravel garden, Cottage and informal garden, City and courtyard gardens, Architectural
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 alkaline loam in full sun, with upper part of rhizomes exposed at soil level and not overshadowed, rotate every 5-6 years. See bearded iris cultivation
PruningRemove any dying foliage in autumn, old flower stems can be cut down after flowering
PropagationPropagate by division of rhizomes from midsummer to early autumn, every 3-4 years, see dividing irises
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to slugs, snails, iris thrip and iris sawfly
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to aphid-borne viruses, bacterial soft rot and grey moulds; see Iris diseases