About
Iris lactea, the white-flowered iris, is a variable perennial to around 40 cm with linear, finely ribbed, grey-green, sometimes purple-based leaves and usually pale violet-blue flowers in spring. A hardy and adaptable iris for a sunny, well-drained border.
About the genus
Iris, the irises, are rhizomatous or bulbous perennials producing narrow, often sword-shaped leaves and distinctive flowers with three large, spreading or pendent fall petals alternating with three erect standard petals. They flower from late winter to early summer in every colour of the rainbow.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitClump forming
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden
Native toTepm. Asia W Himalaya
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, deep, fertile soil that does not dry out. Will tolerate part shade but flowering is best in full sun
PruningRemove spent flower stems in summer, and any dying foliage in autumn
PropagationPropagate by seed or by division, see dividing iris for more detailed advice. Plants raised from seed may take some years to flower
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to aphids, slugs, snails and thrips
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to aphid-borne viruses, bacterial soft rot and grey moulds; see Iris diseases