About
Iris Californian hybrids are evergreen perennials, from 15 to 70cm tall, with long, narrow leaves. Unbranched flower stems bear 2-3 flowers in a wide colour range, often with intricate patterns or markings, from mid-spring to early summer.
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, Partial shade
Soil typeClay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectWest-facing, South-facing, North-facing, East-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Coastal, Patio and container plants, Cottage and informal garden
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
CultivationGrows best in an acid to neutral soil with added humus in full sun or partial shade. Resents root disturbance so best propagated by seed
PruningRemove dead foliage, old flower stems can be cut down after flowering
PropagationPropagate by seed or by division
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