Border Bearded Iris Iris 'Cool Treat' (BB)
ABOUT
Iris 'Cool Treat' is a striking plant known for its showy flowers, which are the primary highlight of this cultivar. The blooms of the 'Cool Treat' are characterized by their exquisite color combinations. Each flower typically features standards (the upper petals) that are a soft blue or lavender shade, which contrasts beautifully with the falls (the lower petals) that display a creamy white color. Often, the falls may be adorned with a gentle splash of blue or lavender near the center, adding a touch of artistic flair to each bloom. The flowers have a classic iris form, with three upright standards and three downward-arching falls, creating a pleasing symmetry. In the center of the flower, one would notice the beards, which are fuzzy, caterpillar-like extensions that run down the middle of each fall. These beards are usually a lighter color, such as white or yellow, providing a delightful contrast against the darker shades of the petals. Beyond the flowers, Iris 'Cool Treat' has slender, sword-shaped leaves that grow upright and form dense clumps. These leaves are a rich green color and offer a sharp textural contrast to the soft, ruffled edges of the iris blossoms. The foliage presents a neat, vertical aspect to the plant's form, serving as an elegant backdrop for the stunning flowers. Overall, the appearance of the Iris 'Cool Treat' is one of refined beauty, with its harmonious color palette and sophisticated flower form making it a sought-after choice for gardens and floral displays. The juxtaposition of soft floral hues against the vibrant green leaves creates a cooling effect, much like the name suggests, and adds an air of tranquility and poise to the plant's surroundings.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Iridaceae
Synonyms
Border Bearded Iris, BB Iris
Common names
Iris 'Cool Treat' (BB).
ToxicityTo humans
Irises, including the 'Cool Treat', contain compounds like irisin, iridin, or irisine that may cause digestive upset if ingested. Symptoms of iris poisoning can include stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Contact with the sap can cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals. Therefore, it is advisable to handle irises with care and avoid ingesting any part of the plant.
To pets
Irises, including the 'Cool Treat', are toxic to pets if ingested. The rhizomes (the underground stems) are particularly poisonous. Symptoms of iris poisoning in pets can include drooling, vomiting, lethargy, diarrhea, and in severe cases, could lead to abdominal pain or even depression. Pet owners should prevent their pets from ingesting any part of the plant and seek veterinary care if they suspect their pet has consumed iris material.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Blue
Height
2 feet (60 cm)
Spread
1 foot (30 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
3-9
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Iris 'Cool Treat' adds visual interest to the garden with its striking bluish-purple flowers and distinctive form.
- Low Maintenance: This variety of bearded iris requires minimal care once established, making it an easy choice for both novice and experienced gardeners.
- Drought Tolerance: It can withstand dry conditions, reducing the need for frequent watering and fitting well in xeriscaped or water-wise landscapes.
- Cold Hardy: Iris 'Cool Treat' is capable of surviving in colder climates, broadening its range of suitable planting zones.
- Attracts Pollinators: The flowers provide nectar for pollinators such as bees and butterflies, supporting local ecosystems.
- Seasonal Interest: It blooms in late spring to early summer, offering seasonal color and interest in the garden when many other plants are not in flower.
- Multiplication: It propagates through division, allowing gardeners to easily expand their collection or share with others.
- Adaptability: This iris can thrive in a variety of soil types, as long as they are well-drained.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Photography: Iris 'Cool Treat' has vibrant colors that can be used by photographers as a stunning subject for macro photography, contributing to the artistic aspect of a garden collection.
- Artistic Inspiration: The dramatic contrast of its petals can inspire artists for botanical paintings or can serve as a model for glasswork and other crafts.
- Culinary Garnishing: While not commonly consumed, the petals of Iris 'Cool Treat' can be used as a decorative garnish for high-end culinary dishes after ensuring they are free of pesticides and other chemicals.
- Fragrance Extraction: Perfumers may utilize the subtle scent of the Iris 'Cool Treat' to craft unique perfumes, although it’s not one of the main species used for this purpose.
- Educational Tool: In botany education, this plant can serve as a live specimen to study plant structure, adaptation, and reproductive biology.
- Cultural Significance: Can be planted in gardens to represent wisdom and compliments in accordance with certain cultural beliefs associated with irises.
- Fabric Dyeing: The pigments of Iris 'Cool Treat' might be used to naturally dye fabrics, although extraction methods must be gentle to preserve the dye’s quality.
- Themed Landscaping: Used in landscaping to create theme gardens, such as "cool-colored" gardens featuring blues and purples or 'Dutch' gardens reminiscent of traditional iris settings.
- Floral Arrangements: The stems of Iris 'Cool Treat' can be used in cut floral arrangements, holding their shape and adding height and structure to the display.
- Bioindication: Can be part of a garden ecosystem to help indicate soil health and moisture levels, as irises tend to thrive in well-draining soil with moderate moisture.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe use of the Iris in Feng Shui is not specific to any particular variety but in general, Irises can add an energy of purity and are believed to attract good Chi when placed in home areas associated with wealth and abundance, which is the southeast part of the home.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Iris is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Faith: The Iris represents faith, reflecting its steady nature and resilience.
- Hope: This plant is a symbol of hope, often used to convey a sense of belief in future joy and prosperity.
- Wisdom: Historically, the iris is associated with wisdom, and can often be found in scholarly or thoughtful contexts.
- Courage: The bloom's bold presence can signify courage, especially in challenging circumstances.
- Purity: The clean lines and delicate form of the Iris convey a message of purity and innocence.
- Royalty: In some cultures, the Iris is symbolic of royalty and majesty, due to its regal appearance.
WaterBorder Bearded Irises like 'Cool Treat' prefer to be watered deeply but infrequently. The soil should be allowed to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot. Depending on your climate, watering once a week with about a gallon of water per plant should be sufficient. During hot, dry spells, water them twice a week. Avoid overhead watering to keep the foliage dry and help prevent fungal diseases.
LightBorder Bearded Irises require full sun to thrive, so 'Cool Treat' should be planted in a location where it receives at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. Morning sun is especially beneficial as it helps to quickly dry dew from the leaves, reducing the risk of disease.
TemperatureThe ideal temperature range for Border Bearded Iris 'Cool Treat' is between 55°F and 75°F. They are hardy and can survive minimum temperatures as low as -20°F and maximum temperatures well above 90°F. For best growth and bloom, ensure that they are planted in an area where they are protected from extreme heat.
PruningPruning, or deadheading, Border Bearded Iris 'Cool Treat' removes spent blooms to encourage more flowers and prevent seed formation, which can sap energy from the plant. After blooming, cut the flower stalks down to the base. In late fall, trim the foliage to a few inches above the ground to tidy the plant and reduce overwintering pests and diseases.
CleaningAs needed
SoilBorder Bearded Irises prefer well-draining soil with a pH of 6.8 to 7.0, rich in organic matter. Amend the soil with compost before planting. Avoid waterlogged areas to prevent rhizome rot.
RepottingBorder Bearded Irises generally do not need frequent repotting. Instead, they should be divided every 3-4 years to maintain vigor and prevent overcrowding.
Humidity & MistingBearded Irises thrive in outdoor conditions where ambient humidity is not a critical factor; they are adaptable to a wide range of humidity levels.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Bearded Iris in bright light, cooler conditions, ensure good airflow.
Outdoor
Full sun, well-drained soil, spacing 12-24 inches apart.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleIris 'Cool Treat', also known as Border Bearded Iris, begins its life cycle as a rhizome, which is planted just below the soil surface. In the spring, new growth emerges from the rhizome as the plant enters its vegetative stage, producing long, sword-like leaves that grow in a fan-shaped pattern. As the weather warms, the iris develops tall flowering stalks that bear vibrant, often multi-colored blooms characteristic of this cultivar. After flowering, usually in late spring to early summer, the plant enters a period of seed production, if pollinated, with the flowers developing into seed pods. During the summer months, the foliage continues photosynthesis to store energy in the rhizome for the next year’s growth. As winter approaches, the iris enters a period of dormancy, with the foliage dying back, and the rhizome remaining dormant underground until the cycle restarts with the next spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Late summer
The Iris 'Cool Treat' can be best propagated through division, typically done in late summer after the blooming period has ended. This involves carefully digging up the existing plants and separating the rhizomes, which are the horizontal underground stems capable of producing the leafy shoots and roots. The rhizomes should be cut or broken apart so that each section has at least one fan of leaves and a portion of roots. These individual rhizome sections can then be replanted into well-drained soil with the top of the rhizome slightly exposed to the air. This method allows the plant to establish itself before the onset of winter, ready to grow and bloom in the following spring. It is vital to space the newly planted rhizomes about 12 to 24 inches apart (30 to 60 centimeters) to ensure they have enough space to develop.
