Iris laevigata 'Finlay Cameron' (Japanese Iris) — Clump-forming

Overview

Iris laevigata 'Finlay Cameron' is a plant with a clump-forming habit in the genus Iris, part of the Iridaceae family, with sword-shaped foliage. Iris laevigata 'Finlay Cameron' grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include borders, rock gardens and containers.

About

Iris laevigata 'Finlay Cameron' is a clump-forming iris in the Iridaceae with upright, sword-shaped foliage and a clear May to July flowering season. It prefers full sun in a neutral, loamy soil that drains well and suits a south-facing, sheltered position. Rated H7 (fully hardy) for the UK, it performs well in borders, rock gardens and containers. The plant's structural leaves remain a feature outside the flowering window.

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

In the garden

Iris laevigata 'Finlay Cameron' is a clump-forming member of the iris family (Iridaceae) with erect, sword-shaped leaves and a concentrated flowering period from May to July. The cultivar keeps a clear seasonal rhythm so its bloom flush is easily planned for alongside other late-spring and early-summer perennials. Give this iris full sun in a neutral, loamy soil that sheds excess water yet retains enough moisture for growth; it is specified as well-drained in cultivation notes. Sit it on a south-facing, sheltered spot to protect flower stems from prevailing winds and to maximise bloom potential. In UK terms it carries an H7 rating, meaning it is fully hardy through typical winter conditions. Use Iris laevigata 'Finlay Cameron' at the front or middle of a mixed border where its vertical leaves provide structure, in a rock garden pocket with good loam-filled pockets, or in a container filled with loam-based compost and a free-draining layer. Expect upright leaves to frame the plant for much of the year and a concentrated display of flowers between May and July that complements later-season neighbours.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Iris

Sunlight: Full sun
Soil type: Loam
Soil pH: Neutral
Soil moisture: Well-drained
Aspect: South-facing
Exposure: Sheltered
UK hardiness: H7

Plant details

Iris laevigata 'Finlay Cameron' size, habit and characteristics

Habit: Clump-forming
Foliage: Sword-shaped
Suggested uses: Borders, rock gardens, containers

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Iris laevigata 'Finlay Cameron'

Propagation: Division, seed
Pest resistance: Good
Disease resistance: Good

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Iris laevigata 'Finlay Cameron'?

Iris laevigata 'Finlay Cameron' prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Iris laevigata 'Finlay Cameron' need?

Iris laevigata 'Finlay Cameron' grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.

Is Iris laevigata 'Finlay Cameron' hardy in the UK?

Iris laevigata 'Finlay Cameron' has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.

How do I propagate Iris laevigata 'Finlay Cameron'?

Division, seed.

More in the Iris genus

Browse all Iris →