About
This vigorous, spreading herbaceous perennial, with glaucous, straplike leaves to 60cm long. Produces tall, branching stems of large, lightly aromatic, orange flowers in late spring and 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
Soil typeLoam, Sand
Soil pHNeutral, Acid
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitClump forming
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height1-2 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Coastal, Cottage and informal garden
FragranceFlower
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
CultivationThrives in a sunny position, in neutral to slightly acid soil with good drainage. Plant rhizomes just above soil level, as sun on the rhizomes encourages flowering. See bearded iris cultivation
PruningRemove spent flower stems and any dying foliage in autumn
PropagationPropagate by division, see dividing irises for more detailed advice
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