Iris
(Iridacaeae)
Iris "Edith Wolford"
Hardy to Zone 4
Bloom Time - April/May
Color - All colors
Foliage - Thick, stiff, strap like blades
Size - 3-4 ft.
Exposure - Full sun (some can tolerate light shade).
Culture - Iris do well in a wide range of soils, including poor soils, as long as the rhizomes are planted at ground level. They should be planted in early September. Division, best done after blooming, should be done every 2-3 years or whenever growth is crowded. Plant in areas with good drainage.
I can't imagine a garden without Iris, especially a Southern garden. Common, yes, but so lovely. Iris thrived in our garden during the first years but then they started to suffer when they became crowded and the garden got shadier. Renewal and sun are two requirements for good blooms.
Bearded iris (German Iris) are the most popular but don't forget about Louisiana Iris, Japanese Iris, Siberian Iris and a host of others. Overall, there are over 200 species of iris worlwide. The Iris is a popular flower in Greek mythology (Goddess of the Rainbow) and have served as symbols of Royalty throughout history.
Return to Perennials and Annuals
Bloom Time - April/May
Color - All colors
Foliage - Thick, stiff, strap like blades
Size - 3-4 ft.
Exposure - Full sun (some can tolerate light shade).
Culture - Iris do well in a wide range of soils, including poor soils, as long as the rhizomes are planted at ground level. They should be planted in early September. Division, best done after blooming, should be done every 2-3 years or whenever growth is crowded. Plant in areas with good drainage.
I can't imagine a garden without Iris, especially a Southern garden. Common, yes, but so lovely. Iris thrived in our garden during the first years but then they started to suffer when they became crowded and the garden got shadier. Renewal and sun are two requirements for good blooms.
Bearded iris (German Iris) are the most popular but don't forget about Louisiana Iris, Japanese Iris, Siberian Iris and a host of others. Overall, there are over 200 species of iris worlwide. The Iris is a popular flower in Greek mythology (Goddess of the Rainbow) and have served as symbols of Royalty throughout history.
Return to Perennials and Annuals