About
An evergreen rhizomatous perennial, to around 30cm high, with tough, narrow green leaves. aromatic, creamy white flowers, with an orange-yellow stripe on the falls, are borne singly on short, upright stems in late winter and early spring.
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 pHNeutral, Alkaline
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous 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, Cottage and informal garden
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 a sunny spot in sharply drained, neutral or slightly alkaline soil. Ideal for a rockery or at the base of a sunny wall
PruningRemove any dying foliage, old flower stems can be cut down after flowering
PropagationPropagate by division, see dividing iris for more detailed advice
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to aphids, slugs, snails and thrips
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to aphid-borne viruses, bacterial soft rot and grey moulds; see Iris diseases