About
A bearded iris with thick rhizome roots and strap-like, sword-shaped green leaves. In late spring and early summer it produces large white, perfumed flowers that are heavily speckled with lavender-blue around the petal edges. Fall petals have a pale orange beard. The flowers are borne on erect stems around 80cm tall.
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, Clay
Soil pHAcid, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectEast-facing, West-facing, South-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitClump forming
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height1-2 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Gravel garden, Mediterranean climate plants
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. Plant rhizomes just above soil level. See bearded iris cultivation
PruningNo pruning required. Cut back faded flower stems after flowering, and remove withered leaves in late winter or early spring.
PropagationLift rhizomes, separate healthy sections and replant in summer or autumn after flowering has finished, see dividing irises
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to slugs and snails.
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to aphid-borne viruses, bacterial soft rot and grey moulds; see Iris diseases