About
Tall bearded iris bearing numerous, ruffled and shimmering flowers, 9 to 11 per stem on average, in late spring. Upright standards are white with clearly aubergine-toned edges, falls of a nearly black crimson-purple and a luminous orange-red beard resting on a white area with dark purple striations.
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
Soil typeLoam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectWest-facing, South-facing, East-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitColumnar upright
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Coastal, Cottage and informal garden
ToxicityFruit are ornamental - not to be eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. Pets: Fruit are ornamental - not to be eaten - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers
Care notes
CultivationGrow in moist but well-drained soil in full sun or part shade. See bearded iris cultivation
PruningRemove any dying foliage in autumn, old flower stems can be cut down after flowering. Trim back foliage by half to prevent wind rock while the roots establish
PropagationPropagate by division of rhizomes from midsummer to early autumn every 3 to 4 years, see dividing irises
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to iris sawfly, slugs, snails, aphids and thrips
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to aphid-borne viruses, bacterial soft rot and grey moulds; see Iris diseases