Dwarf Iris Iris 'Eyebright' (SDB)
ABOUT
Iris 'Eyebright' is a captivating plant belonging to the Iris family, known for its distinctive and ornate flowers. Its blooms exhibit an enchanting blend of colors, with petals typically showcasing a mesmerizing gradient from a creamy white or pale yellow base to vibrant shades of lavender, purple, or blue. These colors are often accentuated by intricate veining or spotting that adds a layer of complexity to their appearance. The flowers of Iris 'Eyebright' are characterized by their unique structure, comprising three upright or slightly arching petals called standards, and three downward-curving petals called falls. The falls often boast a brilliant, conspicuous spot called a beard, which is fuzzy and may be a contrasting color like orange, yellow, or white, providing an eye-catching highlight against the primary hues of the bloom. The Iris 'Eyebright' has sword-shaped, linear leaves that grow upright and provide an attractive, contrasting backdrop to the vibrant flowers. These leaves emerge from a rhizome at the base of the plant and are generally a deep green color, adding to the plant's overall lush and striking visual appeal. Overall, the appearance of Iris 'Eyebright' is that of an elegant and sophisticated plant, with its blooms offering a burst of color and a delicate beauty that captures the essence of spring and early summer gardens. Its flowers not only delight the eyes but are also a treasured choice for bouquets and artistic floral arrangements.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Iridaceae.
Synonyms
Standard Dwarf Bearded Iris, Dwarf Bearded Iris, SDB Iris.
Common names
Iris 'Eyebright' (SDB).
ToxicityTo humans
The Iris 'Eyebright' (SDB), commonly known simply as the iris, is generally considered to be mildly toxic to humans if ingested. The plant contains compounds, particularly irisin, iridin, or irisine, which can cause stomach upset, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Ingestion of large quantities can lead to more severe symptoms like abdominal pain. Handling the plant may also cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals. It's advisable to avoid consuming any part of the iris and to wear gloves when handling it to prevent skin irritation.
To pets
The iris, specifically the Iris 'Eyebright' (SDB), is considered toxic to pets, such as dogs and cats. If ingested, it can cause symptoms of poisoning which typically include drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and abdominal pain. In severe cases, ingestion could lead to more significant gastrointestinal upset or even respiratory problems. It's important to prevent your pets from chewing on or ingesting parts of the iris and to seek veterinary attention if you suspect your pet has consumed any part of the plant.
CharacteristicsLife 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
4-9
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Landscaping Appeal: The Iris 'Eyebright' adds aesthetic value to gardens with its showy, vibrant flowers.
- Low Maintenance: Once established, it requires minimal care, making it convenient for busy gardeners.
- Drought Tolerance: This plant can survive with relatively low water, making it suitable for xeriscaping or regions with water restrictions.
- Pest Resistance: It's generally resistant to pests, reducing the need for chemicals in the garden.
- Cold Hardy: The Iris 'Eyebright' can survive in colder climates, which makes it a versatile addition to various garden zones.
- Attracts Pollinators: The flowers of the Iris 'Eyebright' attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects that pollinate plants.
- Seasonal Interest: It provides early to mid-spring blooms, adding color to gardens when many other plants are not yet in flower.
- Soil Versatility: It can grow in a variety of soil types, although it prefers well-drained soils.
- Compact Size: As a smaller variety, it fits well in areas where space is limited or in container gardens.
- Companion Planting: It pairs beautifully with other perennials, creating visually appealing garden designs.
Medical Properties- This plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Iris 'Eyebright' can be used in perfumery, with petals sometimes distilled for their fragrance to add a unique note to custom perfumes.
- The fibers from the leaves and stems can be used for weaving light baskets or even crafting paper due to their strong fibrous properties.
- The sap from Iris 'Eyebright' can act as a natural adhesive for small-scale artistic projects, similar to how birch sap is used.
- The blooms can be pressed and used in decorative art, preserving the beauty of the flower in books, cards, or framed displays.
- Dye extracted from the petals of the Iris 'Eyebright' can be used to color fabrics or inks with subtle hues depending on the concentration.
- Rhizomes of the plant are sometimes dried and used in potpourri mixes, adding a unique, earthy fragrance to the blend.
- The plant can be included in educational garden programs to help children learn about pollination and the role of bees in gardens.
- Iris 'Eyebright' can be planted as a companion plant in gardens to help repel certain types of pests due to their scent.
- Gardeners may use the distinct pattern and color of the petals of Iris 'Eyebright' as inspiration for landscape design and garden aesthetics.
- The stems of the plant can be used in floral arrangements as a sturdy base to support other, more delicate flowers.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Iris is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Iris is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Wisdom: Irises are often associated with wisdom due to their regal appearance and historical presence in royal symbols.
- Hope: The iris can symbolize hope, with its vibrant bloom signaling the arrival of spring and new beginnings.
- Faith: In religious contexts, the iris is seen as a symbol of faith, representing trust in the divine or in the universe.
- Courage: Due to its upright stance and hardiness, the iris also represents courage and admiration.
- Purity: White irises, in particular, are symbolic of purity and innocence, often used in weddings and religious ceremonies.
WaterDwarf Bearded Irises, like 'Eyebright', prefer moderate watering, especially during the growing season. Water them deeply once a week, providing about one inch of water, which is equivalent to approximately 0.6 gallons per square foot. It's important to avoid overwatering as they do not like to sit in waterlogged soil. During the rainy season or cooler months, reduce the frequency to account for natural precipitation. Ensure that the plant's soil is almost dry before watering again to promote healthy root growth.
LightDwarf Bearded Irises, such as 'Eyebright', thrive best in full sunlight. They need at least six hours of direct sunlight per day to bloom well. Place them in a location where they can receive unfiltered sunlight for the majority of the day, avoiding shaded areas that can negatively affect their flowering.
TemperatureDwarf Bearded Irises, including 'Eyebright', prefer temperate climates and can generally survive in temperatures as low as 20 degrees Fahrenheit and as high as 90 degrees Fahrenheit. However, they flourish best when the temperature ranges between 55 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit, which encourages vigorous growth and blooming.
PruningPruning Dwarf Bearded Irises, such as 'Eyebright', is done to remove dead blooms and foliage, which encourages the growth of new flowers and maintains plant health. After blooming, cut back the flower stalks to the base. In late summer or early fall, trim any damaged or yellowing leaves. Pruning is typically done annually, after the bloom period and before winter dormancy sets in.
CleaningAs needed
SoilDwarf Bearded Iris (Iris 'Eyebright') prefers well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH of 6.8 to 7.0. The best soil mix would include loamy garden soil, compost, and coarse sand to improve drainage. Avoid heavy, wet soils to prevent root rot.
RepottingDwarf Bearded Iris generally does not need frequent repotting and should be divided and repotted every 3-4 years to maintain vigor and flower production. Fall is the best time to repot and divide these irises.
Humidity & MistingDwarf Bearded Iris, like many iris varieties, tolerates a wide range of humidity levels and does not require any specific humidity adjustments for optimal growth.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Dwarf Bearded Iris near a sunny window.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, well-draining soil; divide every 3-4 years.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleThe Iris 'Eyebright' (Standard Dwarf Bearded Iris) begins its life cycle when a seed germinates, typically in a moist and well-drained substrate. After germination, it develops a root system and a small shoot that will grow into a fan of sword-shaped leaves. During the first few years, the plant will focus on vegetative growth, establishing a robust root system and foliage, and it may not bloom during this time. Once mature, it enters its blooming phase, usually in late spring to early summer, producing showy flowers that range from white and yellow to purple and blue, depending on the variety. After flowering, if pollination occurs, the plant will produce a capsule containing seeds, which can be dispersed to start new plants. Over time, the clump of the Iris 'Eyebright' will enlarge, and can be divided and replanted to propagate the plant and maintain its vigor.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
Iris 'Eyebright' (SDB), commonly known as Eyebright Dwarf Bearded Iris, is best propagated by division. This is a popular method that allows gardeners to produce true-to-type plants. The ideal time for dividing and replanting these irises is late summer to early fall, after the blooming period has ended and at least six weeks before the first hard frost, allowing them sufficient time to establish roots. To propagate by division, carefully uplift the Iris clumps using a fork or spade and gently separate the rhizomes. Each section should have at least one leaf fan. Trim the leaves to a third of their height, which is typically about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters), to reduce water loss. Replant the divisions promptly, setting the rhizome just at or slightly below the soil surface, spaced about 12 to 18 inches (30 to 45 centimeters) apart, to allow for growth and airflow between plants.
