About
Iris cristata, the dwarf crested iris, is a rhizomatous perennial to only 10 cm tall, forming a spreading mat of fans of vivid-green leaves. Stemless, light violet-blue flowers to 4 cm across, with a conspicuous white patch and narrow orange crest on each fall, are produced in spring. A charming and ornamental miniature iris for a shaded rock garden or woodland edge.
About the genus
Iris, the irises, are rhizomatous or bulbous perennials producing narrow, often sword-shaped leaves and distinctive flowers with three large, spreading or pendent fall petals alternating with three erect standard petals. They flower from late winter to early summer in every colour of the rainbow.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull shade, Partial shade
Soil typeClay, Loam
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Poorly-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitMatforming
FoliageDeciduous
HeightUp to 10 cm
Spread0-0.1 metre
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesPatio and container plants, City and courtyard gardens, Coastal, Cottage and informal garden, Rock garden
Native toSE USA
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 moist, humus-rich soil in full sun or partial shade. Or grow in a container under glass, keep just moist during dormancy
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
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