iris
Iris germanica
USDA zones3 to 10
SunHandles full sun to partial sun
WaterHandles dry to moderate soil
Size2 to 3 feet tall12 to 24 inches wide
- Habit
- Erect
- Bloom season
- Spring, summer
- Bloom color
- Purple falls with yellow beards and lilac standards
- Foliage color
- Green
- Soil types
- Sand, loam
Garden uses
Notes
Iris (Iris germanica) is a perennial for borders and cut flowers. It is hardy to USDA zone 3, or down to -40°F (-40°C). This plant likes full or part sun and dry to average, sandy or loamy soil. The fragrant blooms have purple falls with yellow beards and lilac standards. They open in late spring and again in early to late summer. It is not a favorite of deer, though hungry deer will eat almost anything.
Pairs well with Ice plant, Carnation, and Spanish bluebell.
Native range
Eastern Mediterranean.