About
A spreading, prostrate annual or short-lived perennial from moist, disturbed habitats across Europe and Asia with small, three-parted or pinnate, mid-green leaves and erect stems bearing loose sprays of small, pale yellow, five-petalled flowers in summer. A botanical curiosity for a cool, moist garden or wildflower planting.
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 typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAlkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitClump forming
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCoastal, City and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants
Native toN Africa to SW Asia
FragranceFlower
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
CultivationGrow in well-drained or sharply drained neutral or slightly alkaline soil. Ideal at the base of a sunny wall
PruningCut back after flowering
PropagationPropagate by division from midsummer to early autumn, plant immediately in flowering positions
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