About
Iris latifolia, the English iris, is a bulbous perennial to 60 cm with narrowly lance-shaped leaves and violet, violet-blue or white flowers to 10 cm across, each fall whitish at the base, in early summer. Despite the name, it is native to the Pyrenees and was introduced into cultivation through England � a beautiful and reliable bulb for a moist, 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
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAlkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeBulbs
HabitClump forming
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0-0.1 metre
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Coastal, Cottage and informal garden
Native toPyrenees, Spain
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 moist but well-drained neutral or slightly alkaline soil, preferably in a sunny spot where the soil does not dry out. See bulb iris cultivation for further advice. May be naturalised in grass
PruningNo pruning required, Remove the foliage once it has died down
PropagationLift and propagate by division in early autumn. Propagate by seed; sow seeds in cold frame in spring or autumn
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to slugs and snails
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to aphid-borne viruses, bacterial soft rot and grey moulds; see Iris diseases