About
This rhizomatous perennial to 1m high with arching, glaucous-green leaves and ruffled pale creamy-yellow flowers in 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 typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitColumnar upright
FoliageDeciduous
Height1-1.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Gravel 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
CultivationGrow in well-drained neutral to alkaline soil in full sun; it will tolerate acid soil that is reliably well-drained. See bearded iris cultivation
PruningRemove any dying foliage in autumn, and cut down old flower stems after flowering; to reduce wind rock of tall cutivars while the plants are establishing, trim leaf fans to one third of their height
PropagationPropagate by division of rhizomes from midsummer to early autumn, see dividing irises
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to slugs, snails, thrips and aphids
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to aphid-borne viruses, bacterial soft rot and grey moulds; see Iris diseases