Tall Bearded Iris Iris 'Ambroisie' (TB)

☠ Toxic to humans

🐾 Toxic to pets

🌸 Blooming

🍪 Not edible

‍🌱 Easy-care

ABOUT

The Iris 'Ambroisie' is a captivating plant known for its ornamental appeal in gardens. This particular variety boasts a mesmerizing display of flowers, which are the main attraction of the plant. The blooms are characterized by their intricate shapes and blend of colors. Each flower has six petals, with three upright petals called standards and three hanging petals called falls. The standards of the 'Ambroisie' are often a lighter, softer hue which could range from pale lavender to a soft peach or cream. In contrast, the falls display a more vibrant color, typically featuring deeper tones in purple, violet, or rich pinkish shades, with some intricate veining or speckling that adds depth and texture to their appearance. Adding to their beauty, the falls may also display a delicate beard along their centers, which is a fuzzy strip that may come in a contrasting color such as yellow or white, providing an eye-catching element to the overall appearance of the flower. The blossoms of the Iris 'Ambroisie' are further enhanced by a gentle fragrance, making them not only a visual delight but also providing a sensory experience in the garden. The foliage of Iris 'Ambroisie' consists of long, sword-like leaves that emerge from the base of the plant, typically arranged in a fan-like pattern. These leaves are a rich green color and can add a structural element to the garden even when the plant is not in bloom. The leaves have a somewhat upright growth habit, creating an elegant backdrop for the stunning flowers. Overall, Iris 'Ambroisie' exudes an air of classic beauty, with its majestic flowers and striking foliage, making it a cherished addition to any landscape where it can spread its full aesthetic appeal without reference to its specific dimensions.

Plant Info

Care

Common Problems

About this plant

Names
- Family
  Iridaceae.
- Synonyms
  Tall Bearded Iris, Bearded Iris.
- Common names
  Iris 'Ambroisie' (TB)
Toxicity
- To humans
  The Tall Bearded Iris, commonly known as Iris 'Ambroisie', has parts that are considered toxic if ingested. The rhizomes are particularly toxic and can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, stomach pains, and diarrhea if ingested. Contact with the sap can also result in skin irritation for some individuals. It's advisable to handle the plant with care and ensure that children do not ingest any part of it.
- To pets
  The Tall Bearded Iris in pets may cause similar toxic reactions as it does in humans if ingested. Symptoms of iris poisoning in pets include vomiting, diarrhea, salivation, lethargy, and in severe cases, issues with the digestive tract. It is particularly important to prevent pets with a habit of digging and chewing from accessing the rhizomes of the iris. If you suspect your pet has ingested part of an iris plant, consult a veterinarian.
Characteristics
- Life cycle
  Perennials
- Foliage type
  Deciduous
- Color of leaves
  Green
- Flower color
  Mixed
- Height
  2-3 feet (60-90 cm)
- Spread
  1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
- Plant type
  Bulb
- Hardiness zones
  3-9
- Native area
  Europe

Benefits

General Benefits
- Aesthetic Appeal - Iris 'Ambroisie' is known for its striking flower colors, which can add visual interest to any garden.
- Pollinator Attraction - Like many irises, this variety attracts bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators to the garden.
- Low Maintenance - Irises generally require minimal care once established, making them a good choice for low-maintenance landscaping.
- Drought Tolerance - Once established, this iris can tolerate periods of drought, making it suitable for xeriscaping or gardens in dryer regions.
- Cut Flowers - The blooms of Iris 'Ambroisie' are suitable for cutting and can be used in floral arrangements, providing an additional use beyond the landscape.
- Seasonal Interest - Irises typically have a blooming season in late spring to early summer, creating seasonal interest in the garden.
- Dividing and Propagation - Over time, clumps of Iris 'Ambroisie' can be divided and propagated to expand the garden or share with others.
- Deer Resistance - Irises are generally resistant to deer, which makes them a good choice for gardens in areas where deer are a problem.
Medical Properties
This plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying Qualities
This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses
- Photography: The distinct coloration and shape of the Iris 'Ambrosie' can be used by photographers as a subject for macro photography to showcase the intricate details of its petals.
- Art Inspiration: Artists can draw inspiration from the Iris 'Ambrosie' for watercolor paintings, botanical illustrations, or even sculpture due to its striking appearance.
- Culinary Garnish: Petals of the Iris 'Ambrosie', if confirmed safe for consumption, can add vibrant color as an edible garnish on salads and desserts.
- Fragrance Extraction: The Iris 'Ambrosie' may be used in the extraction of essential oils or fragrance for use in perfumery, though irises are generally more known for their rhizomes in fragrance than their flowers.
- Ikebana: This traditional Japanese art of flower arranging often features irises like 'Ambrosie' to create compositions that highlight natural shapes, grace, and beauty.
- Horticultural Education: The Iris 'Ambrosie' can serve as an educational tool in horticultural classes or workshops focusing on plant hybridization and breeding.
- Seasonal Festivities: The flowers of the Iris 'Ambrosie' can play a role in seasonal decorations for events like Easter due to their springtime blooming period.
- Mood Enhancement: The vibrant colors and pleasant shape of the Iris 'Ambrosie' can be used in floral arrangements designed to improve mood and create a positive atmosphere in home or office settings.
- Dye Production: Historically, some species of iris were used to produce dyes, and the Iris 'Ambrosie' may offer potential for natural dye extraction from its petals.
- Wedding Bouquets: Because of its elegance and structure, the Iris 'Ambrosie' can be used in bridal bouquets or as part of wedding decor to add a touch of sophistication.

Interesting Facts

Feng Shui
The Iris is often associated with nobility and wisdom in Feng Shui. It can be used in the northeast sector of a garden or home to enhance educational success and personal growth, or placed in the health area to promote good health and longevity.
Zodiac Sign Compitability
The Iris is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism
- Faith: Irises are often associated with faith, symbolizing the trust and belief in something beyond the material world.
- Hope: The iris can symbolize hope, representing a positive expectation for the future.
- Wisdom: With its regal appearance, the iris is frequently seen as a symbol of wisdom and intelligence.
- Courage: In some cultures, the iris stands for courage, likely due to its bold colors and sturdy growth.
- Purity: The iris can represent purity, and it is sometimes associated with the Virgin Mary in Christian symbolism.

💧

Every 2 weeks

Water

☀️

2500 - 10000 Lux

Light

💦️

Humidity

🪴

Every 2-3 years

Repotting

🌱️

Summer to fall

Propogation

✂️️

As needed

Pruning

Water
Bearded iris requires moderate watering, particularly in the growing season, where you should aim to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. On average, watering thoroughly once a week with about 1 gallon per plant should suffice, depending on weather conditions. However, reduce watering after flowering to discourage rot. Always water at the base of the plant to avoid getting water on the leaves which can lead to fungal diseases. Be prepared to adjust the amount and frequency based on rainfall and temperature, as irises are drought-tolerant once established.
Light
Bearded iris thrives in full sun, requiring at least 6 hours of direct sunlight every day to flower optimally. Plant it in a spot where it can soak up the morning sun which is crucial for drying dew on the leaves, reducing the risk of fungal infections. However, it can tolerate light shade, particularly in extremely hot climates, where some afternoon shade can help protect the blooms from fading.
Temperature
Bearded iris flourishes in a temperature range where the daytime temperatures are below 90°F and nighttime temperatures do not drop below 30°F. Ideally, the temperature range for optimal growth and flowering is between 55°F and 75°F. These plants are cold hardy and can survive winter temperatures down to about -20°F once established.
Pruning
Pruning bearded iris involves deadheading individual flowers as they fade and removing the entire flower stalk after all blooms have finished to redirect energy back into the rhizome. In late summer or early fall, cut back the leaves to about 6 inches to help prevent overwintering pests and diseases. Division of the rhizomes should occur every 3 to 5 years to maintain vigor and bloom quality, typically done post-flowering period or in late summer.
Cleaning
As needed
Soil
Tall Bearded Iris 'Ambroisie' prefers well-drained, loamy soil rich in organic matter. A pH between 6.0 and 7.0 is ideal for optimal growth. Amend heavy clay soils with compost or peat moss to improve drainage.
Repotting
Tall Bearded Irises, including 'Ambroisie', typically do not need frequent repotting. They should be divided and replanted every 3 to 5 years to maintain vigor and flower production.
Humidity & Misting
Tall Bearded Iris 'Ambroisie' is tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels and does not require high humidity to thrive. Average outdoor humidity is generally sufficient.
Suitable locations
- Indoor
  Place in well-lit spot, ensure good drainage, avoid overwatering.
- Outdoor
  Full sun, well-drained soil, divide every 3-5 years.
- Hardiness zone
  Zones 3-9 USDA.
Life cycle
The life cycle of the Tall Bearded Iris 'Ambroisie' begins with seed germination, typically after a period of stratification to break dormancy. Upon germination, the seedling develops into a juvenile plant with a small rhizome and a few leaves. In the vegetative stage, the iris grows larger, producing more leaves and an expanding rhizome underground. When mature, it enters the flowering stage, usually in late spring to early summer, displaying the characteristic large, ornate flowers typical of bearded irises. After pollination and flower senescence, the iris produces seed pods if conditions are suitable. Throughout its life, the perennial rhizome divides and can be separated every few years to propagate new plants, continuing the life cycle.
Propogation
- Propogation time
  Summer to fall
- The Iris 'Ambrosie', commonly known as the Tall Bearded Iris, is most effectively propagated through division, which is typically done after the blooming period in late summer to early fall. To propagate by division, gardeners should carefully dig up the clumps of iris rhizomes and gently separate them by hand or with a knife, ensuring that each division has at least one fan of leaves and a healthy section of rhizome. The excess foliage should be trimmed to about 6 inches (15 centimeters) to balance the foliage with the reduced root system. The divisions are then replanted in a well-draining soil mix, with the top of the rhizome slightly exposed to the air to prevent rot, spaced about 12 to 24 inches (30 to 60 centimeters) apart to allow for growth. Adequate watering is necessary to establish the new divisions, but once established, Tall Bearded Irises require minimal maintenance.