About
A clump-forming, rhizomatous deciduous perennial with strap-like green leaves. White and pink flowers with a purple centre appear in the 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 typeLoam, Clay
Soil pHNeutral, Acid
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Poorly-drained
AspectSouth-facing, East-facing, West-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 height2-5 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden
ToxicityHarmful if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
Care notes
CultivationGrow in moist to wet, deep, humus-rich, neutral to acid soil in sun or part shade; it thrives at the margins of ponds or streams
PruningRemove any dying foliage in autumn, old flower stems can be cut down after flowering
PropagationPropagate by dividing iris rhizomes from midsummer to early autumn. See dividing iris for further advice
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