The Bearded Iris, known scientifically as Iris germanica, is a perennial plant renowned for its stunning and intricate blooms. It is characterized by its ruffled petals and a distinctive "beard" on its falls (the lower petals).
Bearded irises typically have large, showy flowers with six petals: three upright petals called standards and three drooping petals called falls. The falls often have a fuzzy or hairy texture (the "beard") near their centers. The plant has sword-shaped leaves that grow in a fan-like arrangement.
Bearded Irises are perfect for borders due to their height and stunning blooms – typically planted in the middle or back of the border due to their height. Combine Bearded Irises with other perennials like daylilies, peonies, and lupines to extend the blooming season and add varied textures.
Mass plantings can make a bold statement and are especially effective in large garden spaces.
The bearded iris bulbs are easy to plant and can spread rather quickly
Planting the Bearded Iris
They need to be planted in late summer or early fall. The Bearded Iris is like a sunny spot with at least six hours of full sun to help keep the rhizomes dry. It's best to plant them about 16-18 inches apart for good air circulation. They do not need mulching because constant moisture will rot the rhizomes. To preserve the plant's energy, remove the seed pod that forms after they have bloomed. To ensure a healthier plant, prune back the foliage in the fall.
Caring For The Bearded Iris
They should be divided every three to four years in late summer if they are thickly clustered. Rhizomes, their root structure, can die off as new ones form to cause crowding and slow the blooms from forming. Dividing them will give the plants new ground for growth.
How to Divide the Bearded Iris
To divide Bearded Iris, use a garden spade or fork, carefully lifting them out of the soil to avoid damaging the rhizomes. Slowly pull the plants apart using your hands while examining them for dead or damaged rhizomes. Use a knife to separate baby rhizomes from the parent, ensuring the knife has been sanitized with ten percent bleach water between cuts. Discard any damaged or diseased plant parts. Replant, fanning the roots and leaving a portion of the rhizome exposed. Put the plants about 12 to 18 inches apart, clipping the tops to 4 to 6 inches.
