Iris species

iris

Plants of Home and Garden

Full sun and light, rich, well-drained soil preferred; alkaline soil often appreciated. Set bulbs or rhizomes some 3" deep in late summer, fall. May dig plants in fall, trim leaves back to 2-3" above the roots, and divide rhizomes or bulbs as necessary prior to replanting at least 1-2' apart, every few years. Survives transplanting well

May be started from seed in fall, sown 1/4" deep, though cultivars will not come true from seed. Germination quite irregular. Can often be propagated by bulb chipping, also. Many hardy to zone 3

Bearded irises, including Iris germanica, Iris florentina, or orris root, Iris variegata, and other species and numerous cultivars, often do well in drier areas

Iris ensata, previously Iris kaempferi, does not do well with alkaline soils, likes moisture but should not be kept wet. Juno irises may be sown or planted in fall, hardy typically to zone 8-9. Iris cristata, crested iris, is shade and moisture loving, does well in woodland

Further information is available on blue and yellow water irises, Iris versicolor and Iris pseudoacorus, and other Iris species, under Water Plants