Iris confusa 'Martyn Rix' — Upright

Overview

Iris confusa 'Martyn Rix' is a upright perennial in the genus Iris, part of the Iridaceae family, with sword-like leaves foliage. Iris confusa 'Martyn Rix' grows best in partial shade, and tolerates well-drained and fertile soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include border planting and architectural plant. It is native to China.

About

Iris confusa, also known as the bamboo iris, is a species of iris. It is also in the subgenus Limniris and in the section Lophiris.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Iris confusa

About the genus

Iris takes its name from the Greek goddess of the rainbow, and for once the naming feels entirely earned. I can't think of another genus that covers so much ground — inky purples, burnt apricots, clean whites, blues that seem lit from inside — or so many situations. There are bearded irises that want their rhizomes baked in full sun, Siberian types happy in ordinary border soil, and species that will sit contentedly at the edge of a pond. What they share is the flower: three petals standing up, three falling away, built with a kind of architectural confidence most plants never attempt. Even out of bloom the foliage earns its place — those upright fans of blue-green leaves hold a border together for months. I grow them for the fortnight in May and June when nothing else in the garden can compete, and I've made my peace with that. Some plants are for the long haul. An iris is an event.

Written by Henry

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Iris

Sunlight: partial shade
Soil type: well-drained, fertile
Soil pH: Neutral
Soil moisture: moist
Aspect: South-facing
Exposure: Sheltered
UK hardiness: H5

Plant details

Iris confusa 'Martyn Rix' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: perennial
Habit: Upright
Foliage: Sword-like leaves
Suggested uses: Border planting, Architectural plant
Native to: China

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Iris confusa 'Martyn Rix'

Cultivation: Prefers sheltered position with partial shade; keep soil moist but well-drained; mulch in winter
Pruning: Remove dead or damaged foliage after flowering
Propagation: Division in spring or autumn
Pest resistance: Generally pest-free
Disease resistance: Generally disease-free

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Iris confusa 'Martyn Rix'?

Prefers sheltered position with partial shade; keep soil moist but well-drained; mulch in winter.

Where is the best place to plant Iris confusa 'Martyn Rix'?

Iris confusa 'Martyn Rix' prefers partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Iris confusa 'Martyn Rix' need?

Iris confusa 'Martyn Rix' grows best in well-drained and fertile soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist.

How do I prune Iris confusa 'Martyn Rix'?

Remove dead or damaged foliage after flowering.

Is Iris confusa 'Martyn Rix' hardy in the UK?

Iris confusa 'Martyn Rix' has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.