Iris Iris 'Bromyard' (SDB)

Names

• Family

  Iridaceae

• Synonyms

  Bromyard Iris, Standard Dwarf Bearded Iris

• Common names

  Iris 'Bromyard' (SDB).

Toxicity

• To humans

  The Standard Dwarf Bearded Iris, including the 'Bromyard' variety, contains irisin, iridin, or irisine which can be toxic if ingested. These compounds are mainly present in the rhizomes (the bulb-like underground stems), but all parts of the plant can be irritants. If ingested, the toxins can cause gastrointestinal discomfort, including nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. Rarely, it might also result in skin irritation after handling. It's advisable to avoid ingesting any part of the iris to prevent these potential symptoms.

• To pets

  The Standard Dwarf Bearded Iris, including the 'Bromyard' variety, can be toxic to pets if they ingest any part of the plant, particularly the rhizomes. The plant contains compounds that can cause digestive upset in animals. Symptoms of poisoning in pets may include vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, lethargy, and abdominal pain. Severe cases could potentially lead to more significant digestive tract irritation or damage. Pet owners should keep the iris plant away from pets and be cautious of their pet's curiosity in gardens where irises are present.

Characteristics

• Life cycle

  Perennials

• Foliage type

  Deciduous

• Color of leaves

  Green

• Flower color

  Mixed

• Height

  1 foot (30 cm)

• Spread

  1 foot (30 cm)

• Plant type

  Bulb

• Hardiness zones

  4

• Native area

  Europe

General Benefits

• Adds color to the garden: The Iris 'Bromyard' flowers with vibrant hues, enhancing the visual appeal of garden spaces.
• Easy to grow: It's generally low maintenance and can grow in a variety of soil types, though it prefers well-drained soil.
• Drought tolerant: Once established, it can survive periods of low water, making it suitable for drier climates or water-wise gardens.
• Attracts pollinators: The flowers can attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators, supporting local ecosystems.
• Multiplication: It can multiply and spread over the years, offering more planting material for garden expansion without extra cost.
• Seasonal interest: The Iris 'Bromyard' blooms in spring, providing a seasonal highlight in the garden.
• Uses in garden design: It is versatile for garden designs, suitable for borders, rockeries, or as mass plantings.

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 and Art Inspiration: The distinctive color and pattern of the Iris 'Bromyard' can serve as a muse for artists and photographers, inspiring creative works and providing a vibrant subject for various art forms.
• Eco-friendly Dye Source: The petals of this iris can be used to create natural dyes for coloring textiles, yarns, or paper, offering an eco-friendly alternative to synthetic dyes.
• Fragrance Extraction: The Iris 'Bromyard', like some other irises, could potentially be used in the production of essential oils or perfumes, although this use is more commonly associated with Iris germanica, the source of orris root.
• Educational Tool: Botany enthusiasts and educators can utilize the unique traits of the Iris 'Bromyard' to teach about plant biology, genetics, and hybridization processes in gardening clubs or schools.
• Culinary Garnish: Although not a common edible flower, its vibrant petals could be used as an ornamental garnish for salads or desserts, provided they are free of pesticides and not harmful for consumption.
• Seasonal Celebrations: The Iris 'Bromyard' can be incorporated into floral arrangements or bouquets for special occasions, particularly in spring celebrations due to its blooming season.
• Scented Sachets: Dried Iris 'Bromyard' flowers can be used in scented sachets to freshen up drawers and closets, although this use is not as potent as some other more traditionally fragrant flowers.
• Creative Crafts: The sturdy petals and leaves of the Iris 'Bromyard' can be used in crafting activities such as making bookmarks, pressed flower art, or for floral decoupage projects.
• Floating Decorations: Petals or whole flowers can be floated in water bowls for a decorative effect during events or in home decor to add a touch of elegance.
• Botanical Jewelry: The smaller size of Iris 'Bromyard' makes it suitable to be used in the creation of botanical jewelry, like resin pendants or earrings, preserving its beauty in wearable art.

Feng Shui

The Iris is not used in Feng Shui practice.

Zodiac Sign Compitability

The Iris is not used in astrology practice.

Plant Symbolism

• Hope - The iris often symbolizes hope, evoking the sense of anticipation for positive outcomes and future joys.
• Wisdom - Historically associated with royalty and the divine, irises can represent wisdom and valued knowledge.
• Trust - With its regal appearance, the iris conveys a message of trust and the belief in someone's integrity and reliability.
• Purity - The iris flower can symbolize purity, especially in its white varieties, reflecting innocence and unspoiled beauty.
• Courage - In some cultures, the iris is a symbol of bravery, indicative of one's ability to face challenges head-on.
• Royalty - The luxe and intricate petals of the iris have been linked to royalty, symbolizing opulence and regal bearing.
• Valor - Mirroring courage, valor is another theme the iris portrays, often used to honor someone's achievements or strength in adversity.
• Messages and Communication - The iris can represent sending messages, perhaps because of its varied colors which can be used to convey different emotions or ideas.
• Spiritual Awakening - Some believe the iris is a symbol of spiritual awakening, its flowers representing the opening of awareness to the spiritual or inner realm.