(Iris spuria) EYE-riss SPUR-ee-ah Genus:  Iris This beardless iris is one of the tallest growing. It is available in a wide range of flower colors and blooms from late spring to mid-summer. These irises are tall like Japanese irises but have upright flowers and bloom later than the tall bearded ones. Noteworthy Characteristics:  Tall; wide range of flower colors; later bloom than bearded irises. Care:  Well-drained soil in full sun to part shade. Most require a dry summer dormancy, alkaline soil, and high fertility. Propagation:  Sow seed in a cold frame in fall. Lift and divide clumps and replant immediately in early autumn. Problems:  Iris borer, verbena bud moth, whiteflies, iris weevil, thrips, slugs, snails, aphids, nematodes. Bacterial leaf blight and soft rot, crown rot, rhizome rot, leaf spot, rust, viruses, and scorch can occur.

Overview

Height 3 ft. to 6 ft. Spread 6 in. to 12 in. Growth Habit Clumps Growth Pace Moderate Grower Light Full Sun to Part Shade Moisture Medium Moisture Maintenance Moderate Characteristics Showy Flowers, Showy Foliage Bloom Time Early Summer, Late Spring, Spring, Summer Flower Color Brown, Purple, White, Yellow Uses Beds and Borders, Cut Flower Seasonal Interest Spring Interest Type Perennials