Norris Iris Iris × norrisii
ABOUT
Iris × norrisii, commonly known as Norris's Iris, is a hybrid plant showcasing a striking and sophisticated appearance. This ornamental beauty is well-regarded for its distinctive flowers that generally bloom in the late spring to early summer season. Each flower is an elegant composition featuring a blend of vibrant colors, and they often bear various shades including purples, blues, yellows, and whites. The petals have a soft, velvety texture and are arranged in a typical iris fashion, with three upright standards contrasting with three downward curving falls, often with a touch of frilly or ruffled edges. The falls may exhibit a beard or crest - a fuzzy or ridged line that adds to the visual appeal of the flower. The plant's foliage consists of long, sword-shaped leaves that grow in a fan-like pattern. These leaves are a deep, rich green and have a subtle sheen, creating a lush backdrop for the colorful blooms. The leaves are stiff and upright, adding to the plant's architectural quality. Norris's Iris holds its flowers atop slim, sturdy stems that gracefully support the weight of the blooms. The overall presentation of the plant embodies a blend of both dramatic flair and sophisticated elegance, making it a popular choice for gardens and landscaping designs that aim to create a focal point with a touch of class.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Iridaceae
Synonyms
Norris's Iris, Wedge-leaf Iris
Common names
Iris × norrisii.
ToxicityTo humans
The Bearded Iris, like most members of the Iris genus, contains compounds that can cause irritation and gastrointestinal upset if ingested. The leaves, rhizomes (underground stems), and flowers possess these compounds. If parts of the plant are eaten, the individual may experience symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. Handling the plant can sometimes cause skin irritation due to the presence of irritating substances. It is advisable not to consume any parts of the Bearded Iris and to wash hands after handling the plant.
To pets
The Bearded Iris can also be toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. The plant contains irritant compounds throughout its parts, including the rhizomes, leaves, and flowers. If pets ingest parts of the Bearded Iris, they can experience symptoms similar to those in humans, including vomiting, drooling, lethargy, and diarrhea. In severe cases, ingestion can lead to more significant gastrointestinal distress. It is important to prevent pets from chewing on or ingesting any part of the Bearded Iris to avoid these potentially harmful effects.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Varies
Height
2-3 feet (60-90 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Hybrid origin
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Adds aesthetic appeal to gardens with its striking flowers and foliage.
- Habitat Support: Provides nectar for pollinators like bees and butterflies.
- Erosion Control: Root system helps stabilize soil and prevent erosion.
- Drought Resistance: Once established, can tolerate periods of drought, reducing the need for frequent watering.
- Low Maintenance: Generally requires minimal care once established, making it a good choice for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Cold Hardy: Capable of surviving in colder climates, which allows for a wide range of planting zones.
- Seasonal Interest: Offers a variety of colors and blooms usually in spring, providing seasonal interest in the landscape.
- Naturalizing: Tends to spread over time, filling in spaces to create a natural, wildflower look in the garden.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Iris × norrisii, or 'Norris's Iris', petals can be used to create a natural dye for fabrics, providing a range of colors from yellow to green depending on the mordant used.
- The fibers from the leaves of the Norris's Iris can be woven into ropes or twines as they are quite strong and flexible.
- Dried seed pods of the Norris's Iris can be used in flower arrangements or as part of decorative displays for their unique shape and texture.
- Floral water infused with the essence of Norris's Iris flowers can be used for a lightly scented room freshener or linen spray.
- The rhizomes of the Norris's Iris, when dried, can potentially be used in potpourris to add bulk and a woody scent.
- The flowers of the Norris's Iris can be pressed and used in botanical art or for making handmade paper due to their color and form.
- Whole Norris's Iris plants can contribute to soil erosion control due to their robust root system when planted in mass on slopes.
- Norris's Iris can be used as indicators of the health of a wetland ecosystem; healthy blooms may suggest a well-balanced aquatic environment.
- Leaves of the Norris's Iris can be used as packing material for delicate items, providing cushioning and some antimicrobial benefits.
- The Norris's Iris can be a teaching tool in gardening workshops for topics such as hybridization, propagation, and cultivar development.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Walking Iris is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Walking Iris is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Royalty: The iris often symbolizes nobility and elegance, reminiscent of its regal presence in ancient Greek and Roman iconography where it was associated with sovereign rulers.
- Wisdom: Due to its namesake from the Greek goddess Iris, the messenger of the gods, irises are often regarded as a symbol of communication and wisdom.
- Hope: With its vibrant blossoms and resilience, the iris carries a message of hope and positive expectations for the future.
- Faith: Irises can represent faith, trust, and belief, often used in religious contexts or in ceremonies symbolizing these virtues.
- Valor: The historic use of the fleur-de-lis, a stylized iris, in heraldry and by various military units has associated the flower with bravery and courage.
- Purity: The iris, especially when white, is a symbol of purity and innocence, making it a popular choice in bridal bouquets and wedding decorations.
WaterThe Wedding Iris should be watered deeply once a week to ensure the roots receive enough moisture, which will encourage strong growth and flowering. During hot or dry spells, increase watering to twice a week, ensuring that each time you provide about one to one and a half gallons of water, depending on the soil's ability to retain moisture. It's crucial to avoid overwatering, as the Wedding Iris is susceptible to rot if left in soggy soil. In the winter, reduce watering to every other week or less, as the plants are dormant and need less moisture.
LightThe Wedding Iris thrives in full sun, which means it should receive at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. The ideal spot for the Wedding Iris is one where it can soak up the morning sun, which is less harsh than the afternoon sun, although it will still perform well in a location that receives full sun throughout the day.
TemperatureThe Wedding Iris prefers temperate conditions and is hardy in a range of climates. It can survive in temperatures as low as 5°F and as high as 90°F. However, the ideal temperature for robust growth and flowering would be between 60°F and 70°F.
PruningPruning the Wedding Iris involves removing spent flowers and cutting back the leaves to about six inches after blooming, usually in late summer, which helps prevent disease and encourages stronger plants for the next season. Additionally, every three to five years, divide the rhizomes in late summer to promote vigorous growth and to prevent overcrowding.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Wedding Party Iris prefers a well-draining soil mix with a neutral to slightly acidic pH of 6.5 to 7.0. A mixture of garden loam, compost, and sand or perlite would be ideal to facilitate proper drainage and provide necessary nutrients.
RepottingWedding Party Irises do not need to be repotted frequently; every 3 to 4 years is sufficient. Overcrowding can be a sign that repotting is necessary.
Humidity & MistingWedding Party Irises are hardy and do not require high humidity levels; average room humidity is generally adequate for these plants.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright light; limit direct sun exposure.
Outdoor
Choose a sunny spot, well-draining soil, protect from harsh winds.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleIris × norrisii, commonly known as Iris Norissii or Bearded Iris, begins its life as a seed which, when sown in well-draining soil and exposed to the required period of dormancy, germinates to produce small shoots. The shoots develop into young plants with sword-like leaves, establishing a root system that includes rhizomes, which are underground stems. As the Iris Norissii matures, it forms distinct fan-shaped foliage and, during the flowering period in spring to early summer, it produces showy flowers that are often bearded, attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies. After pollination, the flowers fade and seed pods may form, which eventually dry and release seeds for dispersal. Throughout the growing season, the plant's rhizomes expand, giving rise to new fans and increasing the size of the clump. The Iris Norissii enters a phase of dormancy in the colder months, during which the above-ground foliage may die back, but the rhizomes survive underground to sprout anew in the following growing season.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to summer
The most popular method for propagating Iris × norrisii, commonly known as the Water Iris, is through division of its rhizomes. This is typically done in late summer after the blooming period has ended. Gardeners should carefully lift the clump of Water Iris out of the soil using a spade and wash off any excess dirt to make the rhizomes visible. With a sharp knife, sections of the rhizome should be cut apart ensuring each piece has at least one fan of leaves and a portion of healthy roots. The cuts allow the rhizomes to callous over for a few hours before planting them in their new locations. When replanted, the rhizome should be placed so the top is slightly below the surface of the soil, allowing the fan of leaves to remain above ground. Rhizomes should be spaced approximately 12 to 24 inches apart (30 to 60 centimeters) to provide enough space for growth.
