Bearded iris Iris germanica
ABOUT
I. germanica is an evergreen perennial with grey-green leaves. Flowers have both bluish-violet standards and falls, with yellow beards in late spring
About this plant
NamesFamily
Iridaceae
Synonyms
Bearded Iris, German Iris, Common Flag
Common names
Iris germanica var. florentina, Iris florentina, Iris pallida var. florentina, Iris alba, Iris amoena, Iris germanica nothovar. florentina.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Varies
Height
2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters)
Spread
1-2 feet (0.3-0.6 meters)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
3-10
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Landscape beautification: Iris germanica, commonly known as Bearded Iris, offers stunning flowers that enhance garden aesthetics with a variety of colors and patterns.
- Drought resistance: Once established, Bearded Irises require minimal watering, making them suitable for xeriscaping and drought-prone areas.
- Low maintenance: Bearded Irises are easy to grow and care for, needing only occasional maintenance such as dividing clumps to promote health and prevent overcrowding.
- Pest resistance: This plant has natural resistance to many pests and diseases, reducing the need for chemical treatments.
- Erosion control: The root systems of Bearded Irises can help to stabilize soil and prevent erosion in garden settings.
- Wildlife attraction: Bearded Irises can attract beneficial insects like bees, which are essential pollinators for many gardens and ecosystems.
- Seasonal interest: With their spring blooming season, Bearded Irises provide vibrant color and interest after a long winter, signalling the arrival of warmer weather.
- Easy propagation: Bearded Irises can be easily propagated through division, allowing gardeners to expand their collections and share with others.
- Versatility in landscape design: These plants can be used in a variety of garden designs, from formal beds to naturalistic plantings.
- Culinary use: Although not commonly consumed, some parts of the Bearded Iris can be used in culinary preparations, like using the rhizomes for flavoring.
Medical Properties- Diuretic: Iris germanica rhizomes have traditionally been used to promote urine production.
- Laxative: In some herbal medicine practices, the rhizomes of Iris germanica may be used to help alleviate constipation.
- Emetic: It has been used historically to induce vomiting for certain treatments.
- Skin healing: The rhizome is sometimes used in ointments for its purported skin healing properties.
- Anti-inflammatory: Iris germanica is believed to have anti-inflammatory properties and may have been used to reduce swelling.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Flavoring Agent: The dried root of Iris germanica, known as orris root, can be used to flavor syrups, sodas, and other confections, imparting a subtle violet-like fragrance.
- Perfumery: Orris root from Iris germanica is a key ingredient in perfumery, used as a fixative to enhance the longevity of fragrances.
- Potpourri: The dried flowers and root are often added to potpourri mixes for their pleasant aroma and to help sustain the scent over time.
- Natural Dye: The blooms can provide a natural dye for fabrics, yielding colors ranging from yellow, green to blue, depending on the mordant used.
- Artistic Inspiration: Its striking flowers and form have historically inspired artists and can be found in numerous paintings, illustrations, and designs.
- Garden Design: Iris germanica is popular in landscape design for its architectural foliage and vibrant blooms that can create focal points in gardens.
- Insect Repellent: Some components found in Iris germanica may deter insects, making them beneficial when planted in gardens.
- Water Purification: They can be planted around ponds and water features to help absorb excess nutrients and support the ecological balance.
- Fragrance Sachets: Dried orris root is often used in sachets to scent drawers, closets, and linens with a fresh, floral aroma.
- Culinary Garnish: The flowers are sometimes crystallized or used fresh as an elegant, edible garnish on desserts and salads.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Bearded Iris is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Bearded Iris is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Royalty - The iris's regal appearance and association with the French monarchy, where it is known as the fleur-de-lis, symbolizes royalty and noble bearing.
- Wisdom - In ancient Greece, the iris was linked to the goddess Iris, who was a messenger of the gods and acted as a link between heaven and earth, thereby symbolizing wisdom and communication.
- Hope - The iris often embodies hope, with its bloom heralding the arrival of spring and the good weather to follow.
- Faith - The flower’s three upright petals are said to represent faith, valour, and wisdom, qualities that are highly esteemed in various cultures.
- Courage - As a part of personal adornment or royal emblems, the iris represents courage in the face of adversity.
- Purity - White irises, in particular, are often associated with purity and innocence, commonly used in religious ceremonies and weddings.
WaterBearded Iris should be watered deeply but infrequently once established, aiming for about an inch of water per week during the growing season. Reduce watering after the bloom period, as Bearded Iris prefer drier conditions when dormant. In the heat of summer, water every two to three weeks if there is no rainfall. Make sure the soil has good drainage to prevent root rot. During the establishment period of the first year, water the plant once to twice a week to encourage deep root growth.
LightBearded Iris thrives in full sun, needing at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily to bloom well. The best spot for Bearded Iris is in a location without any shade from trees or buildings, particularly where they can receive morning sun which is ideal for drying dew from the foliage, reducing the risk of disease.
TemperatureBearded Iris prefers temperate climates and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but they perform best between 55°F and 75°F. They can survive winter temperatures as low as -20°F and summer highs up to around 90°F. However, prolonged temperatures above 90°F may affect blooming and overall plant vigor.
PruningPruning, or deadheading, of Bearded Iris should be done after blooming by cutting flower stalks down at their base. Remove any diseased or brown leaves to promote healthy air circulation. In late summer or early fall, prune the foliage into a fan shape about 4 to 6 inches above the ground. This tidies up the plant and helps to prevent disease.
CleaningAs needed
SoilBearded Iris thrives in well-draining, loamy soil with a pH of slightly acidic to neutral, around 6.8 to 7.0. A mix of two-thirds loam and one-third sharp sand or fine grit can enhance drainage. Compost can be added to provide nutrients; however, avoid rich soils or excessive organic matter, which can cause the rhizomes to rot.
RepottingBearded Iris generally does not need frequent repotting. They can be left undisturbed for several years. However, they should be divided and replanted every 3 to 5 years to prevent overcrowding and maintain plant vigor.
Humidity & MistingBearded Iris is tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels and does not require any special humidity considerations. It is more important to ensure good soil drainage and avoid waterlogged conditions than to try to adjust humidity levels.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure full sun, well-draining soil, and divide every 3-5 years.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, ensure good drainage, and divide rhizomes as needed.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleIris germanica, commonly known as Bearded Iris, begins its life as a seed, which, when sown, germinates depending on soil temperature and moisture levels. The seed develops into a seedling with a primary root that grows and forms a rhizome, a horizontal underground stem that serves as a storage organ and a means of vegetative reproduction. New shoots and roots emerge from the rhizome and develop into a mature plant with characteristic long, sword-shaped leaves. Each spring to early summer, the plant produces tall flowering stalks bearing showy flowers that range in color from blue and purple to yellow and white. After pollination, typically by insects, the flowers form capsules containing seeds, and the plant may go dormant, especially in areas with hot, dry summers, conserving energy within the rhizome. The Bearded Iris repeats its growth cycle each year, with the rhizome dividing and expanding over time, enabling the plant to spread and form larger clumps.
PropogationPropogation time
Late summer
The most popular method of propagation for Iris germanica, commonly known as the Bearded Iris, is by dividing its rhizomes. This process is typically done in late summer after the flowering season has ended, which allows the divisions to become established before the onset of winter. Gardeners should dig up the clumps of irises carefully, shake off the excess soil, and inspect the rhizomes for signs of disease or damage. Using a sharp knife, they can then cut the rhizomes into pieces, ensuring that each division has at least one fan of leaves and a section of healthy roots. The foliage should be trimmed to about one-third of its height to reduce water loss. The divided rhizomes are then replanted into well-drained soil, spaced about 12 to 24 inches (approximately 30 to 60 centimeters) apart, with the top of the rhizome slightly exposed to the air. It's crucial to water the newly planted divisions well to help them establish.
