Bearded Iris Iris 'Action Front' (TB)
ABOUT
Iris 'Action Front' is a striking plant known for its remarkable flowers. The blossoms of this plant are typically composed of large, ornate petals that come in a range of vivid colors, often displaying a delicate blend of hues. The petals usually feature a combination of deep purples, blues, or reds accompanied by contrasting hues that can include golden yellows or white. Each flower consists of drooping "falls" and upright "standards," creating a layered, dimensional effect. The falls usually have a velvety texture with a conspicuous 'beard'—a fuzzy, caterpillar-like line running down the middle. The standards rise elegantly above the falls, adding an element of grace and poise to the plant's overall appearance. Below the flowers, the plant showcases blade-like foliage that is typically a bright, lush green. These leaves are upright and sword-shaped, radiating out from the base of the plant and forming a dense clump that provides a contrasting backdrop to the showy blooms above. The overall impression of an Iris 'Action Front' plant is one of vivid color and dramatic floral displays, which adds a touch of sophistication and beauty to any garden where it is featured.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Iridaceae
Synonyms
Tall Bearded Iris, Bearded Iris
Common names
Iris 'Action Front' (TB)
ToxicityTo humans
The Tall Bearded Iris 'Action Front' is considered mildly toxic to humans if ingested. The primary toxic component in irises is the presence of irisin, irisine, or iridin in its rhizomes and roots. Consuming parts of the plant, especially the rhizomes, can cause gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. In rare cases, excessive consumption may lead to more severe symptoms like dehydration due to prolonged vomiting and diarrhea. It's important to handle the Tall Bearded Iris with care to avoid potential irritation from its sap, and ingestion of any part of this plant should be avoided.
To pets
The Tall Bearded Iris 'Action Front' has toxicity risks for pets if ingested. The plant contains compounds such as irisin, irisine, or iridin, mostly concentrated in the rhizomes and roots. If a pet ingests parts of the Tall Bearded Iris, particularly the rhizomes or roots, they may experience symptoms like vomiting, drooling, lethargy, and diarrhea. Severe cases involving large quantities of the plant can lead to more serious gastrointestinal upset and dehydration. Pets should be prevented from chewing on or consuming any part of this plant due to its toxic potential.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Mixed
Height
3 feet (91 cm)
Spread
2 feet (61 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
3
Native area
Temperate Northern Hemisphere
Benefits
General Benefits- Adds vibrant color to the garden with its large, ruffled flowers that are usually a blend of pinks and purples.
- Attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies, aiding in the pollination of the surrounding garden flora.
- It's a resilient perennial that, once established, requires minimal care and can survive in a variety of climates.
- Iris 'Action Front' can be used as a beautiful cut flower, adding elegance and color to indoor arrangements.
- It multiplies over time, allowing gardeners to divide and spread the plant to other areas or share with fellow garden enthusiasts.
- Provides early summer interest, as it typically blooms from late spring to early summer, bridging the gap between spring bulbs and summer perennials.
- Their tall and sturdy stems make them an excellent backdrop for other plants in garden borders or beds.
- Cold hardy, which means they can withstand frost and colder temperatures, making them suitable for a range of hardiness zones.
- Low susceptibility to common pests and diseases, which reduces the need for chemical treatments in the garden.
- Contributes to the biodiversity of the garden ecosystem by providing habitat and food sources for various creatures.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Artistic Inspiration: Iris 'Action Front' can provide a striking subject for artists and photographers due to its intricate structures and vibrant color.
- Educational Resource: The plant can be used in botany and horticulture programs to teach plant breeding and hybridization techniques.
- Dye Production: The petals of the Iris 'Action Front' could potentially be used to create natural dyes for textiles, though this use would require experimentation and may not be colorfast.
- Perfume Scent: The Iris 'Action Front' might be used in the perfume industry as a source of fragrance as some iris species are known to be used in perfumery, although this variety may not be commonly used for such purposes.
- Wedding Decorations: The flowers are ideal for wedding bouquets and arrangements due to their beauty and range of color.
- Culinary Garnish: While not a common ingredient, the petals may serve as a unique edible garnish for high-end culinary creations, provided they are free from pesticides and other harmful chemicals.
- Crafting Material: Dried petals and stems could be incorporated into paper making or used in crafting activities, such as making bookmarks or potpourri.
- Theme Gardens: Iris 'Action Front' can be used in thematic garden designs, such as 'rainbow gardens' due to their vivid colors.
- Symbolic Gift: Irises can symbolize valor and bravery, making Iris 'Action Front' a meaningful gift in certain cultural contexts.
- Floral Shows and Competitions: This variety can be cultivated for display in flower shows, garden clubs, and competitive horticultural events.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Iris is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Iris is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Hope: The iris often represents hope, extending from their spring bloom, signifying the arrival of better times and seasons.
- Faith: Historically, the iris has been associated with faith and devotion, making it a common motif in religious art and architecture.
- Wisdom: In some cultures, the iris is seen as a bearer of wisdom, possibly owing to its namesake, the Greek goddess Iris who was a messenger of the gods and a symbol of communication and new beginnings.
- Courage: The iris may convey courage, reflecting the plant's hearty nature and its ability to bloom boldly and stand tall.
- Royalty: The fleur-de-lis, a stylized representation of the iris, has been used to symbolize royalty, especially in French heraldry.
- Purity: With its elegant and pristine blooms, the iris is sometimes seen as a symbol of purity and innocence.
WaterThe Tall Bearded Iris prefers to be watered deeply but infrequently. During the growing season, it will require watering approximately every 7 to 10 days, depending on weather conditions such as heat and wind which can dry out the soil faster. It is essential to ensure the soil around the iris is well-drained as they are prone to rot with excessive moisture. When you water, aim to provide about an inch of water, which equates to about half a gallon per square foot of soil, ensuring you’re reaching the root zone. During the dormant season, watering can be significantly reduced, especially if natural rainfall provides sufficient moisture.
LightThe Tall Bearded Iris thrives best in full sun conditions, meaning it should receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. The ideal spot for an iris would be in an area where it's exposed to uninterrupted sunlight or only light, dappled shade. This exposure ensures the plant has enough energy for blooming and maintains healthy growth.
TemperatureTall Bearded Irises are cold-hardy and can survive winter temperatures as low as -40°F, making them resilient in various climates. However, for optimal growth and flowering, they prefer temperatures ranging from 55°F to 75°F. It is important that these irises experience a period of dormancy with cooler temperatures in the winter to ensure a robust bloom cycle in the spring and summer.
PruningPruning, or more accurately, deadheading Tall Bearded Irises, encourages the plant to redirect its energy from seed production to vegetative growth and root development, which can lead to more vigorous plants and better blooms in the following season. The best time to prune is just after the blooms have faded in late spring or early summer. Remove just the spent flower stalks at the base, being careful not to damage the surrounding foliage which continues to photosynthesize and store energy for the next year.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Tall Bearded Iris 'Action Front' prefers well-draining, loamy soil enriched with compost or well-rotted manure. A neutral to slightly acidic pH of 6.8 to 7.0 is ideal for robust growth and flowering.
RepottingTall Bearded Iris 'Action Front' generally doesn't require frequent repotting. It's best to divide and repot them every 3 to 5 years to prevent overcrowding and to rejuvenate their vigor.
Humidity & MistingTall Bearded Iris 'Action Front' tolerates average outdoor humidity levels. They do not have specific humidity needs but perform best in conditions that replicate their natural outdoor environment.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure full sun, cool temps, and proper drainage for indoor growth of Bearded Iris.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, in well-drained soil, and with moderate watering.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleIris 'Action Front', commonly known as the Tall Bearded Iris, begins its life cycle when the seeds are sown or rhizomes are planted in suitable conditions during late summer to early fall. The plant establishes itself by developing roots and foliage growth, storing energy in the rhizomes for the next season. In the second year, the iris experiences vegetative growth and the development of sword-shaped leaves, preparing for the flowering stage. The blooming period occurs in late spring to early summer, showcasing the plant's distinctive colorful petals, after which the flowers are pollinated and seeds form. Post-bloom, the plant enters a period of senescence for the flowers, while the foliage and rhizomes continue to gather energy for the next cycle. During the winter, the iris enters dormancy, with the cycle recommencing in the following spring with new vegetative growth, leading to eventual bloom.
PropogationPropogation time
Late summer
The most popular method of propagation for the Iris 'Action Front', which is a Tall Bearded Iris, is through division. Propagation is ideally carried out in late summer after the flowering has finished, typically between July and September. To propagate, dig up the iris clumps and gently shake off the soil. Using a sharp knife, separate the rhizomes, ensuring each division has at least one fan of leaves and a section of the rhizome. Trim the leaves to about a third of their height, which is approximately 4-6 inches (10-15 cm), to reduce water loss. Replant the rhizome divisions into well-draining soil with the top of the rhizome just visible above the soil surface, and water them in well, allowing the soil to settle around the rhizome. This method allows the plants to establish themselves before the onset of winter and prepares them for growth in the coming spring.
