About
Iris brevicaulis, the short-stemmed iris, is a rhizomatous iris from the Mississippi River basin producing upright, broad, sword-shaped, dark-green leaves and lavender-blue flowers with yellow-marked white falls in spring and early summer. A rewarding and ornamental native American iris for a moist, partly shaded border or bog garden.
About the genus
Iris are rhizomatous or bulbous perennials with narrow, often sword-shaped leaves and erect stems bearing flowers with three large, spreading or pendent fall petals alternating with three erect, often smaller, standard petals, in a vast range of colours and patterns. Among the most widely grown and beloved of all flowering plants.
Plant details
Suggested usesBorders, containers, cottage gardens. Excellent as cut flowers.
Care notes
CultivationGrow in well-drained, fertile soil in full sun. Plant rhizomes shallowly with the top exposed to the sun. Water during dry spells but avoid waterlogging.
PruningRemove spent flower stems after blooming. Cut back foliage to a fan shape in late summer. Clear dead leaves in autumn.
PropagationDivide congested clumps every 3-4 years after flowering. Replant healthy rhizome sections with a fan of leaves.
Pest resistanceSlugs and snails may damage young growth. Otherwise generally pest-free.
Disease resistanceLeaf spot and rhizome rot can occur in wet conditions. Ensure good drainage and air circulation.