reticulated iris
Iris reticulata
MBG Plant of Merit 2018
USDA zones5 to 9
SunHandles full sun to partial sun
WaterNeeds moderate soil
Size3 to 6 inches tall3 inches wide
- Habit
- Erect
- Bloom season
- Spring, winter
- Bloom color
- Bluish to dark purple with gold central stripe on the falls
- Foliage color
- Green
Garden uses
Notes
Reticulated iris (Iris reticulata) is a bulb for borders, rock gardens, containers, and winter interest. It is hardy to USDA zone 5, or down to -20°F (-29°C). This plant likes full or part sun and average moisture. Deer rarely make it their first choice. It blooms in late winter to spring with fragrant, bluish to dark purple flowers marked with a gold stripe on the falls. Plants stay only 3 to 6 inches tall, so tuck them near the front of the bed.
Pairs well with Japanese forest grass, Foam flower, and Wintergreen.
Native range
Turkey, Iraq, Iran, and Russia.