Ruffled, often fragrant flowers in a rainbow of colours rise above fans of grey-green foliage from sun-baked rhizomes. Plant rhizomes shallow with their backs exposed for best flowering.
At a glance
- Plant type: Bulb
- Mature size: 90 cm H × 40 cm W
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: happy on low water
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Bearded Iris
Botanically, Iris germanica is a moderate-growing bulb in the Iridaceae family. It reaches around 90 cm tall and 40 cm wide at maturity, with semi-deciduous and silver-grey foliage. Purple, blue, yellow, white and orange flowers appear in spring.
Where to grow Bearded Iris
Bearded Iris suits cool-temperate, warm-temperate and Mediterranean climates and grows best in full sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters. It also is a genuinely water-wise choice and is deer-resistant.
Soil & planting
Most soils suit Bearded Iris provided drainage is reasonable. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Bearded Iris performs well with relatively little water once established. Refresh mulch and provide a modest balanced feed at the start of spring. For the first year, favour occasional deep watering over frequent shallow drinks so roots move into the surrounding soil.
Pruning & care
Prune Bearded Iris after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using Bearded Iris in the garden
Bearded Iris earns its place for cut flowers for the vase, a feature or specimen planting and holding soil on banks and slopes.
Companion planting & design
Combine Bearded Iris with plants that share its preference for happy on low water and cool-temperate climate. Use an odd-numbered group where space allows, or repeat it at intervals through a longer bed.
Good to know
Note that it is toxic to cats and dogs, so site it away from pets that chew.
Buying Bearded Iris
Plant Sale lists Bearded Iris as bulbs. Current stock is confirmed manually, so register interest above before planning around a specific size.
