Tall Bearded Iris Iris 'Butterscotch Kiss' (TB)

☠ Toxic to humans

🐾 Toxic to pets

🌸 Blooming

🍪 Not edible

‍🌱 Easy-care

ABOUT

The Iris 'Butterscotch Kiss' is a stunning plant known for its captivating flowers. The blooms exhibit a mix of warm hues, reminiscent of butterscotch candy. Each petal unfurls to showcase a rich blend of golden yellow and soft brown tones, often with a velvety texture that beckons for a closer look. The petals may also have delicate ruffling along the edges, adding to their charm. The flowers typically comprise three upright standard petals that reach towards the sky, coupled with three downward-arching falls petals, which often display a gentle curvature that creates an elegant contrast. At the center of the falls, there's often a noticeable beard—a fuzzy, caterpillar-like line—that highlights the throat of the bloom with a pop of contrasting color, such as orange or white. The plant itself forms a clump of long, strap-like leaves, which are generally bright green and have a slightly sword-shaped appearance. These leaves elegantly arch away from the center of the plant, providing an attractive backdrop for the spectacular blossoms that rise above on sturdy flower stalks. The overall impression of Iris 'Butterscotch Kiss' is one of beauty and grace, with its showy blooms invoking a sense of warmth and sunny cheerfulness. It is a favorite among gardeners looking to add a splash of color and sophistication to their gardens during the blooming season.

Plant Info

Care

Common Problems

About this plant

Names
- Family
  Iridaceae
- Synonyms
  Tall Bearded Iris, Bearded Iris
- Common names
  Iris 'Butterscotch Kiss' (TB)
Toxicity
- To humans
  The Tall Bearded Iris, including the 'Butterscotch Kiss' variety, is generally considered to have a low level of toxicity to humans. However, ingesting parts of the plant, particularly the rhizomes (underground stems), can cause stomach discomfort, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea due to its irritant compounds. Handling the plant may also cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals.
- To pets
  The Tall Bearded Iris, such as the 'Butterscotch Kiss' cultivar, is mildly toxic to pets, including dogs and cats. Consumption of any part of the plant, especially the rhizomes, can lead to symptoms of gastrointestinal upset such as drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. In most cases, the symptoms are mild, but if a large amount is consumed, it could lead to more serious issues requiring veterinary attention.
Characteristics
- Life 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
  Varies
- Native area
  Temperate Northern Hemisphere

Benefits

General Benefits
- Aesthetic Appeal: Iris 'Butterscotch Kiss' features attractive, ruffled blooms with warm butterscotch and caramel tones, enhancing garden beauty.
- Low Maintenance: Once established, this Tall Bearded Iris requires minimal care, making it suitable for gardeners with varying levels of experience.
- Drought Tolerant: It is relatively tolerant of dry conditions, which is beneficial in areas with water restrictions or less frequent rainfall.
- Pollinator Friendly: The bright flowers attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, supporting local ecosystems.
- Seasonal Interest: Blooming typically in late spring, it adds a splash of color when many other plants have not yet reached their peak.
- Cut Flowers: The blooms of the Tall Bearded Iris make excellent cut flowers, allowing for beautiful indoor arrangements.
- Multiplication: It can easily be divided to create more plants, allowing gardeners to spread the beauty throughout the garden or share with others.
- Deer Resistant: The plant is not a preferred food source for deer, which can help to prevent damage in gardens frequented by wildlife.
- Versatile Planting: It can be planted in borders, beds, and as a specimen plant, offering flexibility in landscape design.
- Longevity: Irises are perennial and known for their longevity in the garden, providing years of enjoyment from a single planting.
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
- Artistic Inspiration: The unique color of 'Butterscotch Kiss' inspires artists and can be used as a subject in paintings, drawings, and other forms of visual art.
- Photography: The Iris makes a great subject for photographers, particularly in spring when they are in full bloom, providing striking images with their deep colors.
- Crafting: The blooms and leaves of the Iris can be used in crafting, such as pressing for use in scrapbooking or card making.
- Dye Production: The petals of 'Butterscotch Kiss' may be used in natural dye production for fabrics or paper, offering a range of warm tones.
- Educational Tool: The plant can be used to teach botany and horticulture, specifically the unique aspects of Iris cultivation and hybridization.
- Culinary Presentation: Although not for consumption, the striking flowers can be utilized as an organic decoration to enhance the presentation of dishes.
- Fragrance: The scent of the 'Butterscotch Kiss' Iris can be captured and used in making potpourri or natural sachets for scenting drawers and closets.
- Garden Design: Used as a benchmark for designing garden beds, their height and color can help in planning the layout and color scheme of a garden.
- Seasonal Celebrations: Their springtime bloom period means they could be used in festivals and celebrations that mark the beginning of the season.
- Bird Attractant: While not their primary purpose, Irises can attract hummingbirds and beneficial insects, contributing to the overall health of a garden ecosystem.

Interesting Facts

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 is often considered a symbol of hope, conveying a sense of optimism for the future.
- Wisdom: Historically, the iris is linked to wisdom and valued for its association with insight and knowledge.
- Faith: Representing deep faith, the iris reflects a belief in the unseen and a trust in the greater journey of life.
- Courage: In various cultures, the iris symbolizes courage due to its bold colors and upright stance.
- Purity: The intricate design and brightness of the iris can evoke a sense of purity and cleanliness.
- Royalty: The luxurious appearance of the iris has made it a symbol of royalty and regal bearing through the ages.

💧

Every 7-10 days

Water

☀️

2500 - 10000 Lux

Light

💦️

Humidity

🪴

Every 3-5 years

Repotting

🌱️

Late summer to early fall

Propogation

✂️️

As needed

Pruning

Water
The Tall Bearded Iris, commonly known as the 'Butterscotch Kiss', has moderate watering needs. To maintain its health, it prefers to be watered deeply once or twice a week, depending on the climate and soil conditions. Ensure that the plant receives approximately one inch of water weekly. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it is essential to allow the soil to dry out slightly between watering sessions. During the blooming season, you may need to water the iris more frequently to support the flowering process, but always check the soil moisture before doing so.
Light
The Tall Bearded Iris, widely recognized by its common name 'Butterscotch Kiss', thrives best in full sun exposure. Ideally, it should receive at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. An open, sunny spot in the garden is perfect for this iris, ensuring that its blooms are vibrant, and the plant is healthy. However, in regions with very hot summers, a little afternoon shade can be beneficial to prevent scorching.
Temperature
Tall Bearded Iris 'Butterscotch Kiss' is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. It prefers temperate climates and performs best in temperatures between 35 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. The iris can withstand temperatures down to about -20 degrees Fahrenheit and up to about 100 degrees Fahrenheit, but extreme temperatures can be detrimental to the health of the plant. Consistent temperatures within the ideal range are conducive to optimal growth and flowering.
Pruning
Tall Bearded Iris 'Butterscotch Kiss' benefits from pruning to encourage healthy growth and blooms. After flowering, cut back the flower stalks to the base to prevent seed formation, which diverts energy from the rhizomes. Remove any brown or damaged leaves to promote good air circulation. The best time for a more thorough pruning is in late summer, when you should cut back the leaves to six inches in a fan shape to prepare for winter.
Cleaning
As needed
Soil
Tall Bearded Iris, commonly known as Iris 'Butterscotch Kiss', thrives in well-draining, loamy soil with moderate fertility. A soil pH of slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.5-7.0) is ideal for this type of iris. Amend the soil with organic matter and ensure it is not too heavy or clayey to allow for proper drainage and prevent rhizome rot.
Repotting
Tall Bearded Iris, generally known as Iris 'Butterscotch Kiss', doesn't require frequent repotting. They can be left undisturbed for several years. It is recommended to divide and repot them every 3 to 5 years to rejuvenate and prevent overcrowding, promoting better blooming.
Humidity & Misting
Iris 'Butterscotch Kiss', also known as Tall Bearded Iris, is tolerant of a wide range of humidity conditions and does not require high humidity. Average outdoor humidity levels are typically suitable for this plant.
Suitable locations
- Indoor
  Place Tall Bearded Iris in a sunny window and ensure good air circulation.
- Outdoor
  Plant Tall Bearded Iris in full sun and well-draining soil.
- Hardiness zone
  3-9 USDA
Life cycle
The life of an Iris 'Butterscotch Kiss' begins with germination, where the seeds sprout typically in the cool, damp conditions of early spring. Following germination, the plant enters the vegetative stage, developing long, sword-shaped leaves and forming a strong root system. As it matures, it enters the flowering stage, usually in late spring to early summer, producing the characteristic large and showy flowers with hues of yellow and brown. After bloom, the flowers fade and seed pods may form, eventually drying and releasing seeds for the next generation. Throughout the growing season, the plant continues to develop rhizomes which can be divided and replanted to propagate new plants. In winter, the plant enters a period of dormancy, with the foliage dying back in regions with cold winters, only to restart the cycle come next spring.
Propogation
- Propogation time
  Late summer to early fall
- The most popular method of propagation for the Tall Bearded Iris 'Butterscotch Kiss' is through division of its rhizomes. This process is generally done in late summer, after the flowering season has ended, but at least 6 weeks before the first hard frost is expected in order to give the new plants time to become established. To propagate, carefully dig up the clumps, ensuring not to damage the rhizomes. Then, using a clean, sharp knife, divide the rhizome into sections, each with at least one fan of leaves and a portion of roots. Trim the leaves to about one third of their original height to reduce water loss and replant the divisions about 12 to 24 inches apart (30 to 60 cm) and 1 inch deep (2.5 cm) in well-draining soil, with the rhizome just slightly visible above the soil surface. Water the newly planted divisions well to help them establish. This method of division helps rejuvenate older clumps that may become crowded and less vigorous, encouraging continued bloom in the following seasons.