Bearded Iris Plants

Bearded Iris Plants, or Iris germanica, is a perennial flower grown in the northern hemispheres of Europe, Asia, and the Americas. Its hardiness zones in the U.S. are 3 through 10. The bulb gets the name from its distinctive look, caused by its fuzzy downward-facing petals resembling a beard.

The Colors Of The Bearded Iris Plants

The flower comes in many colors, from white to light purple to blue to deep purple, and every color except the brightest reds. The flower bloom has six petals, three pointing upward and three pointing downward. There are two cultivars, one blooming in the spring and the second in spring and fall. These twice-a-year-blooming perennials are called remontant types. For year-round color, choose flowers from each cultivar.

It Thrives In Zones 3-9

The longer blades can sit straight up, or they may fall. The leaf color goes from green to blue-green. It thrives in zones 3 through 9. They benefit significantly from going dormant in the freezing winter weather of areas that experience full winters. They should get full sun for six hours each day.

This iris also needs air circulating efficiently around them, so they should be planted at least 16-18 inches apart. The soil should be pH seven or below and neutral—water when the land is dry. Too much water will cause its rhizomes to rot.

The Iris Propagation

Divide them every three to four years at the end of the summer season. When the blooms fade, be sure to break off the seedpods. If they are trying to start seeds while their rhizomes are growing, it puts too much strain on them.

This Plant Comes In Mini Types As Well

The Bearded Iris plants come in mini-dwarf, standard dwarf, intermediate, miniature tall, border, and tall types. Mini-dwarfs can grow to 8 inches tall and have 1 to 2-inch flowers, while tall types can reach 3 feet and show off flowers up to 8 inches in diameter.