Dwarf Iris Iris 'Frank Elder' (Reticulata)
ABOUT
Iris 'Frank Elder' is a captivating variety known for its stunning flowers. This plant produces blossoms that are a delicate combination of pastel shades, often with a predominant color of light lavender or bluish tones. The petals exhibit intricate markings or veins, which are typically a deeper shade of the main flower color and add to the visual interest of the bloom. At the heart of each flower is a splash of bright yellow or gold, providing a striking contrast against the softer hues of the petals. The flowers of Iris 'Frank Elder' are comprised of two distinct types of segments. The upright standards wave gracefully in the air, while the downward-curving falls spread out elegantly below them. The falls also have a soft, velvety texture and sometimes feature a small, raised area near the center known as the "beard," which is often a bright, eye-catching hue. The foliage of Iris 'Frank Elder' is slender and sword-like, with a rich, green color that complements the flowers. The leaves are typically held in fan-shaped clusters which form an attractive backdrop for the blooms. Together, the flowers and foliage create a harmonious and striking display that can add a touch of springtime elegance to any garden setting.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Iridaceae.
Synonyms
Frank Elder Iris, Dwarf Iris.
Common names
Iris reticulata 'Frank Elder'
ToxicityTo humans
The plant in question, commonly referred to as the Reticulated Iris, may have certain toxic properties if ingested by humans. Members of the Iris family typically contain compounds such as irisin, iridin, or irisine which can cause digestive distress. If parts of the plant, especially the rhizomes (underground stems), are consumed, one might experience symptoms including nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. In some cases, handling the plant can also lead to skin irritation due to the presence of irritating compounds. Therefore, it is important to handle this plant with care and ensure that it is not ingested, to avoid the unpleasant and potentially harmful consequences.
To pets
The Reticulated Iris is potentially toxic to pets if ingested. As with humans, the most toxic part of the plant tends to be the rhizomes. If a pet, such as a dog or cat, consumes parts of the Reticulated Iris, they could exhibit signs of toxicity which might include vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, lethargy, and abdominal pain. It is crucial to prevent pets from ingesting this plant and to seek veterinary attention if ingestion occurs to mitigate any potential risks to the animal's health.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pale blue
Height
4-6 inches (10-15 cm)
Spread
6 inches (15 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Middle East
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Iris 'Frank Elder' has striking flowers that enhance the visual appeal of gardens and landscapes.
- Early Bloomer: It blooms in early spring, providing color when many other plants are still dormant.
- Easy Care: This Iris variety typically requires minimal maintenance, making it ideal for novice gardeners.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, it can be quite drought-tolerant, reducing the need for frequent watering.
- Attracts Wildlife: The flowers can attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, which are beneficial for the environment.
- Container Gardening: Suitable for pots and containers, this plant can adorn patios, balconies, and small spaces.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Photography Subject: With their unique, deeply colored petals and striking appearance, Iris 'Frank Elder' can serve as an excellent subject for macro and nature photographers seeking to capture the beauty of early spring blooms.
- Educational Tool: Botany teachers and educators can use the Iris 'Frank Elder' to demonstrate bulbous plant growth, pest resistance, and the variety in petal coloration and pattern to students.
- Garden Companions: These irises can be planted alongside late-winter flowering companion plants, such as snowdrops and crocuses, to create an orchestrated sequence of blooms in a seasonal garden.
- Artistic Inspiration: The vibrant colors and elegant form of Iris 'Frank Elder' can provide inspiration for artists and craftspeople seeking a floral muse for paintings, textile designs, or other artistic creations.
- Culinary Decoration: Though not edible, the blooms of the Iris 'Frank Elder' can be used as non-toxic decorative elements on culinary dishes for special occasions where food presentation is paramount.
- Floral Arrangements: These irises can add a unique touch to floral arrangements, particularly for events that occur during their blooming season, lending a fresh and distinctive aesthetic.
- Color Dye Source: Historically, irises have been used to obtain natural dyes; petals of Iris 'Frank Elder' could potentially provide hues for natural dye experiments.
- Fragrance Extraction: While not commonly used for this purpose, the subtle scent of the Iris 'Frank Elder' can be captured and used in potpourri or homemade perfumes for a light, springtime aroma.
- Garden Contouring: The planting of these irises in patterns can be used to create visual contours and landscape design elements in gardens and parks.
- Symbolism and Gifting: The Iris 'Frank Elder' can symbolize wisdom and compliments, making it suitable as a gift for academic achievements or as a gesture of respect for elders and mentors.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiIris is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityIris is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Faith: The iris often represents faith, with its bold presence and striking appearance suggesting conviction and belief.
- Hope: As a perennial that returns year after year, the iris is a symbol of hope and the expectation of good things to come.
- Wisdom: Historically, the iris is associated with wisdom thanks to its connection with the Greek goddess Iris, who was a messenger of the gods and a link between heaven and earth.
- Courage: Iris flowers have been symbols of courage and valor, possibly because of their sword-like leaves, which can evoke images of strength and bravery.
- Purity: Its elegant and pristine bloom can symbolize purity, and it is often used in religious contexts or during significant life events to convey this message.
- Royal: In ancient times, the iris was associated with monarchy and royal symbols, particularly in France, where the fleur-de-lis is a stylized iris widely used as a regal emblem.
WaterDwarf irises, such as 'Frank Elder', generally require moderate watering. During the active growth period in early spring, ensure the soil is kept moist but not waterlogged, watering approximately once a week with about 0.5 gallons per square yard, depending on rainfall and soil type. After flowering and during dormancy in the summer, reduce watering significantly to prevent bulb rot. In fall, increase watering slightly to support new root growth before the winter.
LightDwarf iris 'Frank Elder' prefers full sun to partial shade. The best spot for this plant would be where it can receive at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. They thrive under a bit of morning sun with some afternoon shade, or dappled sunlight throughout the day.
TemperatureDwarf iris 'Frank Elder' can tolerate winter temperatures as low as 10°F but perform best when the temperature ranges between 35°F to 70°F. They require a period of cold dormancy; thus, winter chilling is necessary for successful blooming in spring. Avoid planting in areas that exceed 75°F during their growing season.
PruningPruning dwarf iris 'Frank Elder' is primarily focused on maintaining plant health by removing spent flower stems after blooming and trimming back dead foliage in the fall. Prune immediately after flowering is finished to tidy up the plant and encourage a good display for the following year. Remove any yellowed or diseased leaves as needed to keep the plant looking its best.
CleaningAs needed
SoilDwarf Iris 'Frank Elder' thrives best in well-draining, loamy soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH between 6.0 and 7.0. For an ideal soil mix, combine garden soil, compost, and sand or perlite to improve drainage.
RepottingDwarf Iris 'Frank Elder' typically does not need frequent repotting and can be repotted every 2-3 years or when the clumps become overcrowded. It's best to divide and repot them after the blooming season.
Humidity & MistingDwarf Iris 'Frank Elder' prefers average humidity levels but does not require specific humidity conditions. It is adaptable to the typical outdoor humidity levels in its growing zones.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Dwarf Iris in bright, indirect light indoors.
Outdoor
Plant in well-drained soil, full sun to partial shade.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
Life cycleIris 'Frank Elder', commonly known as Dwarf Iris or Reticulata Iris, begins its life cycle as a bulb, which remains dormant underground during the summer. As temperatures cool in autumn, roots begin to develop, preparing the plant for its winter growth phase. In late winter to early spring, foliage emerges, quickly followed by the signature purple and yellow flowers. After blooming, which typically lasts for a few weeks, the plant enters a period of photosynthesis and energy storage, replenishing the bulb for the next cycle. By late spring, the foliage yellows and withers as the plant goes into dormancy, retreating back into the bulb stage until the cycle restarts in the autumn. Each year, the bulb can produce offsets, leading to the gradual expansion of the clump of irises in the garden.
PropogationPropogation time
Early Autumn
The most popular method of propagating Iris 'Frank Elder', which is a variety of reticulated iris, is by dividing the bulbs. The best time to do this is in late summer after the foliage has died back, which usually occurs around August or September. Gently lift the bulbs from the soil and brush off any excess dirt. You'll notice that the parent bulb may have produced several smaller bulbs, called bulbils or offsets. These can be separated from the mother bulb and replanted immediately. You should plant them about 3 inches (8 centimeters) deep and about 4 inches (10 centimeters) apart in well-drained soil with some exposure to the sun. By next spring, these offsets should begin to produce their own flowers.
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