Overview
Iris 'Pipes of Pan' (TB) is a plant with a clump-forming habit in the genus Iris, part of the Iridaceae family, with sword-shaped foliage. Iris 'Pipes of Pan' (TB) 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 'Pipes of Pan' is a clump-forming Iris in the Iridaceae with pronounced sword-shaped foliage and a defined summer flowering season. It performs best in full sun on neutral loam that drains freely and suits a south-facing, sheltered position. Fully hardy in the UK (H7), it is planted in borders, rock gardens or containers where structure is required. Flowering occurs from May to July.
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 'Pipes of Pan' is a garden cultivar of Iris grown for its architectural, sword-shaped leaves and seasonal blooms. As a clump-forming plant it produces a clear upright foliage habit that frames the flowering stems and remains a visible feature before and after bloom. Site selection matters: choose a south-facing, sheltered spot in the garden with free-draining loam at neutral pH and plenty of sun. Good drainage is essential; siting on a slightly raised bed or in a container with a loam-based mix helps prevent waterlogging. Exposure to wind should be limited to avoid bending the flowering stems. This iris is fully hardy in the UK (H7) and will withstand the coldest winters in most locations. Expect flowers in the main summer months, from May to July, after which the foliage continues to provide structure through the season. Use it where the upright, sword-like leaves are wanted as a backdrop in mixed borders, in rock garden crevices with well-drained soil, or in containers placed on a sunny, sheltered patio.
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 'Pipes of Pan' (TB) size, habit and characteristics
- Habit
- Clump-forming
- Foliage
- Sword-shaped
- Suggested uses
- Borders, rock gardens, containers
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Iris 'Pipes of Pan' (TB)
- Propagation
- Division, seed
- Pest resistance
- Good
- Disease resistance
- Good
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Iris 'Pipes of Pan' (TB)?
Iris 'Pipes of Pan' (TB) prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Iris 'Pipes of Pan' (TB) need?
Iris 'Pipes of Pan' (TB) grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
Is Iris 'Pipes of Pan' (TB) hardy in the UK?
Iris 'Pipes of Pan' (TB) 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 'Pipes of Pan' (TB)?
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)