About
An evergreen, rhizomatous perennial forming clumps of tough, dark green leaves to 75cm long. Branched stems bear pale yellow and brown flowers in summer and are followed by cylindrical pods that burst open in autumn to reveal bright orange-red, rounded fruits that persist through winter.
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 shade, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Poorly-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitClump forming
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCottage 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
CultivationThrives in a bog garden and shade but will tolerate drier conditions
PruningRemove any dying foliage in autumn
PropagationPropagate by division. See dividing irises
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to slugs, snails and thrips
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to a leaf spot; see also iris diseases