Bearded Iris

With sword-like foliage and showy, often fragrant blooms, bearded iris are a low-maintenance garden staple that multiply readily. Dwarf varieties make charming edging.

About This Plant

Available in a rainbow of colors—pink, blue, red, yellow, purple—they bloom in early summer, with some reblooming later. Heights range from 8 inches to 4 feet. Flowers are excellent for cutting; foliage stays attractive post-bloom. Watch for iris borers; inspect rhizomes annually and discard infested ones.

Special Features

• Easy care / low maintenance
• Multiplies readily
• Fragrant
• Good for cut flowers

Site Selection

Full sun and well-drained soil are essential.

Planting Instructions

Plant mid-summer to early fall, spacing 1–2 feet apart. Excellent drainage is non-negotiable. Loosen soil 12–15 inches, add 2–4 inches compost. For rhizomes: dig a shallow 10-inch wide, 4-inch deep hole; make a soil ridge; place rhizome on ridge, spreading roots down both sides. In clay, leave rhizome top exposed; in sand, cover lightly. For container plants, set rhizome at soil surface. Water thoroughly.

Care

Apply thin compost layer each spring, leaving rhizome exposed. Cut spent flower stalks to base. On rebloomers, remove faded flowers promptly and water consistently. In autumn, trim dead foliage; cut healthy leaves to 4–5 inches. After ground freezes, mulch to prevent heaving. If heaving occurs, cover exposed rhizomes with soil—don't force them back. Divide every 4–5 years in late summer; each division needs 1–2 leaf fans. Discard old rhizomes with few white roots.