Iris germanica 'Night Owl' (Night Owl Bearded Iris) — Clump-forming

Overview

Iris germanica 'Night Owl' is a clump-forming perennial in the genus Iris, part of the Iridaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 1.0 m tall. Iris germanica 'Night Owl' grows best in full sun, and tolerates sandy and loamy soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include borders, beds and rock gardens.

About

Iris × germanica is the accepted name for a species of flowering plants in the family Iridaceae commonly known as the bearded iris or the German bearded iris. It is of hybrid origin.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Iris × germanica

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: Sandy, Loamy
Soil pH: Neutral
Soil moisture: Well-drained, Moist but well-drained
Aspect: South-facing
Exposure: Full sun
UK hardiness: H7

Plant details

Iris germanica 'Night Owl' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: Perennial
Habit: Clump-forming
Foliage: Deciduous
Height: 1.0 m
Suggested uses: Borders, Beds, Rock gardens
Fragrance: Lightly fragrant
Toxicity: Toxic if ingested

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Iris germanica 'Night Owl'

Cultivation: Plant rhizomes in late summer to early autumn in well-drained soil with full sun exposure. Avoid overwatering to prevent rhizome rot.
Pruning: Remove spent flower stalks after blooming and trim back dead foliage in late autumn.
Propagation: Division of rhizomes in late summer or early autumn.
Pest resistance: Generally pest-free
Disease resistance: Generally disease-free

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Iris germanica 'Night Owl'?

Plant rhizomes in late summer to early autumn in well-drained soil with full sun exposure. Avoid overwatering to prevent rhizome rot.

Where is the best place to plant Iris germanica 'Night Owl'?

Iris germanica 'Night Owl' prefers full sun. It suits full sun positions.

What soil does Iris germanica 'Night Owl' need?

Iris germanica 'Night Owl' grows best in sandy and loamy soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained to moist but well-drained.