Intermediate Bearded Iris Iris 'Fierce Fire' (IB)
ABOUT
Iris 'Fierce Fire' is characterized by its striking flowers that create a bold statement in any garden. The blooms exhibit a vivid combination of colors with petals that are typically rich golden-yellow to orange, with some red or burgundy shading and veining that may give them a smoldering, fiery appearance. The petals are comprised of both standards and falls, which is a common characteristic of Iris flowers. The standards are the upright parts of the petal that point skywards, while the falls are the parts that cascade or droop down, creating an elegant contrast in form. The foliage of 'Fierce Fire' consists of long, sword-like leaves that are bright green and emanate from the base of the plant in a fan-like arrangement, providing a striking vertical element even when the plant is not in bloom. These leaves can have a slightly arching habit, which adds to the plant's overall texture in the landscape. The blossoms of 'Fierce Fire' are often adorned in the center with beard-like tufts that are fuzzy and may be in a contrasting color, such as white or yellow, which highlight the throat of the flower. This distinct feature of the flower adds to its charm and is enticing to pollinators such as bees. The Iris 'Fierce Fire' brings a showy, vibrant allure to gardens, with its dramatic flower colors and forms adding both visual interest and an element of exotic flair among other garden plants. It's a popular choice for ornamental gardens due to its striking appearance and ability to stand out in borders, beds, and as a focal point in floral displays.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Iridaceae
Synonyms
Fierce Fire Iris, Bearded Iris, Intermediate Bearded Iris
Common names
Iris 'Fierce Fire' (IB).
ToxicityTo humans
The intermediate bearded iris, commonly referred to as the bearded iris, contains compounds that can be toxic if ingested in large amounts. Although the level of toxicity is generally considered low, ingesting parts of this plant can cause gastrointestinal problems, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain. It is important to handle the plant with care to avoid skin irritation, and to keep parts of the plant out of reach of children who might accidentally ingest them.
To pets
The bearded iris can also be toxic to pets if ingested. The rhizomes (the root-like structures of irises) contain irisin, iridin, or irisine, which can cause gastrointestinal upset in animals. Symptoms of poisoning in pets can include drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and abdominal pain. It's important to prevent pets from chewing on or ingesting parts of the bearded iris to avoid these potential health issues. If you suspect your pet has ingested the plant, contact your veterinarian immediately.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Mixed
Height
2 feet 24 inches [60 cm]
Spread
1 foot 12 inches [30 cm]
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
4
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Pollinators: Iris 'Fierce Fire' draws in bees and other pollinating insects, which help to pollinate nearby plants.
- Landscape Design: It offers a vibrant color and unique shape that can serve as a focal point or complement other plants in garden design.
- Low Maintenance: Once established, it often requires minimal care beyond occasional watering and dividing.
- Drought Tolerance: It can withstand periods of low rainfall, making it suitable for xeriscaping or drought-prone areas.
- Adaptability: This plant can grow in a variety of soil types, although it prefers well-drained conditions.
- Seasonal Interest: Provides visual interest throughout its blooming season and can also be attractive when not in flower due to its foliage.
- Wildlife Habitat: Can serve as shelter for small wildlife such as birds or beneficial insects.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Iris 'Fierce Fire' petals can be used to create a natural dye for textiles, imparting a range of colors from yellows to browns depending on the mordant used.
- The robust leaves of the Iris can serve as a natural material for weaving baskets, with traditional techniques using them in their raw or dried form.
- Iris 'Fierce Fire' can be planted to prevent soil erosion due to their strong root system that helps keep the soil in place, especially on slopes.
- The flower of the Iris can be used to make a fragrant potpourri by drying the petals and combining them with other aromatic herbs.
- Iris rhizomes can be incorporated into cupboards or drawers as a natural moth repellent, protecting clothes from insect damage.
- Dried Iris 'Fierce Fire' flowers can be used in bookmarks or paper making to add aesthetic appeal to handmade paper products.
- The ornamental value of Iris 'Fierce Fire' can be utilized in photography and art, serving as an inspiring subject for botanical illustrations and floral photography.
- When dried, the seed pods of Irises can be used in decorative arrangements or as part of craft projects, such as making wreaths or ornaments.
- The vibrant stems and flowers of the Iris can be used to create natural inks for drawing, calligraphy, or eco-printing.
- With their distinctive shape, Iris 'Fierce Fire' can be used as educational tools in horticultural studies to demonstrate plant structure and pollination to students.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Iris is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Iris is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Royalty: Derived from Greek mythology, where the goddess Iris acted as a messenger and was regarded as a symbol of power and majesty.
- Hope: The rainbow-like appearance of the Iris bloom implies a promise, often associated with the hope that follows a challenge.
- Wisdom: Reflective of intelligence and respect, the Iris is often seen as embodying knowledge and valued for its depth.
- Faith: The flower's three upright petals symbolize faith, valor, and wisdom, as it's traditional in religious ceremonies and various cultures.
- Courage: Named 'Fierce Fire', this cultivar notably signifies courage and admiration, with its fiery tones representing boldness.
WaterBearded Iris 'Fierce Fire' requires consistent moisture, especially during the growing season. Water the iris deeply once a week, applying about a gallon of water per plant to ensure the soil is moist but not waterlogged. During dry spells or in particularly hot climates, you might need to water twice a week to maintain the moisture levels. Reduce watering after the blooming period as too much moisture can cause the rhizomes to rot. Always avoid getting water on the foliage to prevent fungal diseases.
LightBearded Iris 'Fierce Fire' thrives in full sunlight, requiring at least six hours of direct sun daily. Plant it in a spot in your garden that receives unobstructed sunlight to promote healthy growth and abundant flowering. Although it can tolerate partial shade, bloom quantity and quality may decrease with reduced sunlight.
TemperatureBearded Iris 'Fierce Fire' does well in a range of temperatures but prefers the climate to be between 55 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. This perennial can survive winter temperatures down to about -20 degrees Fahrenheit but should be protected from extreme cold with mulching. During the hot summers, it can withstand temperatures up to 90 degrees Fahrenheit without damage.
PruningPrune Bearded Iris 'Fierce Fire' after it blooms to help encourage future blooms and maintain plant health. Remove any spent flower stalks by cutting them close to the base to prevent seed development. Divide and trim the iris rhizomes every 3-5 years, typically in late summer, to prevent overcrowding and to rejuvenate the plants for more vigorous growth and flowering.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Tall Bearded Iris 'Fierce Fire' is a well-drained, loamy soil with a pH of 6.8 to 7.0. Adding organic matter like aged compost can enhance soil structure and fertility.
RepottingTall Bearded Iris 'Fierce Fire' should be divided and repotted every 3 to 5 years to maintain vigour and flower quality.
Humidity & MistingTall Bearded Iris 'Fierce Fire' prefers moderate humidity levels but is tolerant of a range of conditions as long as proper soil drainage is provided.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright light and good air circulation for Tall Bearded Iris.
Outdoor
Plant in a sunny spot with well-draining soil for Tall Bearded Iris.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleThe Iris 'Fierce Fire', also known as Intermediate Bearded Iris, begins its life cycle as a rhizome, which is planted just below the surface of the ground. From the rhizome, roots grow downward to anchor the plant and absorb water and nutrients, while leaves and stems grow upward. During the spring, the plant develops long, sword-like leaves and tall stems that give way to striking, often bi-colored flowers that showcase various shades of fiery colors. After blooming, usually from late spring to early summer, the flowers are pollinated by insects, leading to the production of seeds. Once flowering ends, the plant enters a period of dormancy in the late summer or fall, especially in regions with cold winters. Throughout its life, the Iris 'Fierce Fire' may be divided and replanted to propagate new plants, or it will naturally expand through its rhizomes.
PropogationPropogation time
Late Summer to Early Fall
The most popular method of propagating Iris 'Fierce Fire', an Intermediate Bearded Iris, is through division. This is typically done in late summer, after the blooming season has ended and before the fall. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the iris clump, and using a sharp knife or garden spade, separate the rhizomes, ensuring each section has at least one fan of leaves and healthy roots. Trim the leaves to about one-third of their height to reduce water loss and replant the divisions into well-draining soil, setting the rhizome just at or slightly below the soil surface. Space the divisions about 12 to 24 inches apart (about 30 to 60 centimeters) to allow for growth. Water the new plantings thoroughly to help establish them.
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