Overview
Iris germanica is a clump forming herbaceous perennial in the genus Iris, part of the Iridaceae family, with evergreen foliage. It typically grows around 0.5-1 metres tall and 0.1-0.5 metres wide, reaching full size in around 2-5 years. Iris germanica grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and alkaline and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H6. Suggested uses include city and courtyard gardens, coastal, cottage and informal garden and flower borders and beds.
About
Iris germanica, commonly known as bearded iris or German iris, is a clump-forming herbaceous perennial in the Iridaceae family. It features evergreen foliage and typically grows to a height of 0.5 to 1 metre with a spread of 0.1 to 0.5 metres, reaching full height within 2 to 5 years. This cultivar thrives in full sun and can be grown in a variety of soil types including chalk, loam, and sand, preferring well-drained, alkaline to neutral soils. It is suitable for south, west, or east-facing aspects and can tolerate both exposed and sheltered conditions, offering interest throughout all seasons.
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
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Chalk, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H6
Plant details
Iris germanica size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Herbaceous Perennial
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Height
- 0.5-1 metres
- Spread
- 0.1-0.5 metres
- Time to full height
- 2-5 years
- Suggested uses
- City and courtyard gardens, Coastal, Cottage and informal garden, Flower borders and beds
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Iris germanica
- Propagation
- Seed, Division
- Pest resistance
- Slugs, Snails, Thrips
- Disease resistance
- Aphid-borne viruses, Bacterial soft rot, Grey moulds
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Iris germanica?
Iris germanica prefers full sun. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Iris germanica need?
Iris germanica is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, loam and sand. It prefers alkaline and neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
How big does Iris germanica grow?
Iris germanica reaches a height of 0.5-1 metres and a spread of 0.1-0.5 metres. It takes around 2-5 years to reach full size.
Is Iris germanica hardy in the UK?
Iris germanica has an RHS hardiness rating of H6, meaning it is very hardy, tolerating -20 to -15°C across most of the UK.
How do I propagate Iris germanica?
Seed, Division.
More in the Iris genus
- Iris 'Antigone' (TB)
- Iris 'Dauntless' (TB)
- Iris 'Dipped in Dots' (TB)
- Iris 'Ablaze' (MDB)
- Iris 'After the Storm' (TB)
- Iris 'Aldo Ratti' (TB)
- Iris 'Alene's New Love' (SDB)iris 'Alene's New Love'
- Iris 'Alpine Lake' (MDB)
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