About
A dwarf, clump-forming, rhizomatous perennial with linear mid-green leaves. These resemble a halo. In late spring and early summer flowers are produced on upright stems, with small standards and purple-veined, deep blue falls, white at the base.
About the genus
Iris may be rhizomatous or bulbous perennials, with narrow leaves and erect stems bearing flowers with 3 large spreading or pendent fall petals, alternating with 3 erect, often smaller, standard petals, in late winter, spring or early summer
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeLoam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, East-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeBulbs, Herbaceous Perennial
HabitClump forming
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Coastal, Cottage and informal garden
ToxicityCan cause severe discomfort if eaten
Care notes
CultivationBest planted in sunny position in well-drained, neutral to slightly acid soil. Ensure the rhizome sits at the surface of the soil as they can rot if too deeply planted.
PruningRemove any dying foliage in autumn, old flower stems can be cut down after flowering. Tall cultivars can have their leaf fans trimmed to one third of the total height to reduce wind rock while the plants are establishing
PropagationPropagate by division
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