Overview
Iris 'Liebestraum' is a upright herbaceous perennial in the genus Iris, part of the Iridaceae family, with blue-green foliage. Iris 'Liebestraum' grows best in full sun, and tolerates sandy soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include border planting and architectural plant.
About
Iris 'Liebestraum' is an upright herbaceous perennial in the iris family with blue-green foliage and strong architectural presence. It prefers full sun on a south-facing, sheltered site in free-draining, sandy, neutral soil and tolerates dry conditions. Flowering occurs from May to July, when its tall stems rise above the foliage. The plant suits border planting where vertical form is needed.
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 'Liebestraum' sits in the Iridaceae and presents a clearly upright habit with blue-green leaves that form a vertical, architectural element through the growing season. It thrives where roots stay dry and the site is protected from cold winds, making it a good option for exposed borders given a sheltered microclimate. Fully hardy (H7) in UK terms, it will withstand typical winter conditions when planted in an appropriate dry, well-draining position. Position it in full sun on a south-facing aspect in sandy, neutral soil; aim for the driest part of the garden rather than moisture-retentive ground. Shelter from persistent driving winds preserves the foliage and stem integrity. Avoid heavy, waterlogged sites as those conditions conflict with its dry-soil preference. Use Iris 'Liebestraum' as an architectural accent within mixed borders or as repeated specimens to create vertical rhythm; it fits where clear upright form is required. Expect the flowering display from May to July, during which the erect stems provide summer structure that contrasts with lower-growing perennials.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Iris
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Sandy
- Soil pH
- Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Dry
- Aspect
- South-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Iris 'Liebestraum' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Herbaceous Perennial
- Habit
- Upright
- Foliage
- Blue-green
- Suggested uses
- Border planting, Architectural plant
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Iris 'Liebestraum'
- Propagation
- Division, Seed
- Pest resistance
- Resistant
- Disease resistance
- Resistant
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Iris 'Liebestraum'?
Iris 'Liebestraum' prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Iris 'Liebestraum' need?
Iris 'Liebestraum' grows best in sandy soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays dry.
Is Iris 'Liebestraum' hardy in the UK?
Iris 'Liebestraum' 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 'Liebestraum'?
Division, Seed.
More in the Iris genus
- Iris 'Antigone' (TB)
- Iris 'Dauntless' (TB)
- Iris 'Dipped in Dots' (TB)
- Iris 'Ablaze' (MDB)
- Iris 'After the Storm' (TB)
- Iris 'Aldo Ratti' (TB)
- Iris 'Alene's New Love' (SDB)iris 'Alene's New Love'
- Iris 'Alpine Lake' (MDB)