Iris sibirica 'Ruffled Velvet' — Clump forming

Overview

Iris sibirica 'Ruffled Velvet' is a clump forming perennial in the genus Iris, part of the Iridaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 0.6 m tall and 0.3 m wide. Iris sibirica 'Ruffled Velvet' grows best in full sun, and tolerates sandy and loamy soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include flower borders and beds, cottage and informal garden and city and courtyard gardens.

About

Iris sibirica, commonly known as Siberian iris or Siberian flag, is a species of flowering plant in the family Iridaceae. It is a rhizomatous herbaceous perennial, from Europe and Central Asia.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Iris sibirica

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

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Iris

Sunlight: Full sun
Soil type: Sandy, Loamy
Soil pH: Neutral
Soil moisture: Moist but well-drained, Wet
Aspect: South-facing
Exposure: Sheltered
UK hardiness: H7

Plant details

Iris sibirica 'Ruffled Velvet' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: Perennial
Habit: Clump forming
Foliage: Deciduous
Height: 0.6 m
Spread: 0.3 m
Suggested uses: Flower borders and beds, Cottage and informal garden, City and courtyard gardens

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Iris sibirica 'Ruffled Velvet'

Propagation: Division of rhizomes from midsummer to early autumn
Pest resistance: Slugs, Snails, Thrips
Disease resistance: Aphid-borne viruses, Bacterial soft rot, Grey moulds

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Iris sibirica 'Ruffled Velvet'?

Iris sibirica 'Ruffled Velvet' prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Iris sibirica 'Ruffled Velvet' need?

Iris sibirica 'Ruffled Velvet' grows best in sandy and loamy soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained to wet.

How big does Iris sibirica 'Ruffled Velvet' grow?

Iris sibirica 'Ruffled Velvet' reaches a height of 0.6 m and a spread of 0.3 m.

Is Iris sibirica 'Ruffled Velvet' hardy in the UK?

Iris sibirica 'Ruffled Velvet' has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.