About
Iris poltaratskiana is a rhizomatous iris producing fans of linear, grey-green leaves and distinctive flowers on upright stems from late spring to early summer. A charming and ornamental iris for a sunny, well-drained position.
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 moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, East-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesGravel garden, Patio and container plants, City and courtyard gardens, Rock garden
Native toC Europe to Caucasus
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
CultivationGrows best in a very well-drained, slightly alkaline soil
PruningCut down old flower stems after flowering, and remove any dying foliage in autumn
PropagationPropagate by seed or by division of rhizomes after flowering, from midsummer to late summer; for more advice, see dividing irises
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to slugs, snails and thrips
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to aphid-borne viruses, bacterial soft rot and grey moulds; see Iris diseases