Common Name: Bearded Iris

Scientific Name: Iris hybrida

Bearded Iris - Growth habit

Physiological Growth Cycle: Perennial       USDA Hardiness Zone: 3-10

Monocot

Size:

• 2' - 4' height

Growth Habit:

• Erect

Bearded Iris Sword-like Foliage

Foliage:

• Sword-like leaf shape
• Parallel venation
• 18" long X 1.5" wide

Bearded Iris Perianth Inflorescence	Bearded Iris Beard	Bearded Iris Falls and Standards

Inflorescence:

• Perianth divided into six segments
  • Outer 3 segments (falls)
    • Drooping
    • Bearded
  • Inner 3 segments (standards)
    • Usually erect
• Many various colors
  • Often bi-color

Bearded Iris Seed Capsules

Fruit:

• Capsules

Use:

• Perennial border
• Early spring color

Problems: 

• Iris Borer
• Bacterial soft rot

Culture:

• Full sun
• Well-drained soils prevent bacterial soft rot
• Sunny locations promote flowering

Propagate:

• Division of rhizomes after flowering

Notes:

• Other species:
  • Crested Iris
    • Dutch Iris:   A dwarf variety often used as an edging plant or groundcover;  prefers partial shade