Tall Bearded Iris Iris 'Handshake' (TB)

Names

• Family

  Iridaceae

• Synonyms

  Tall Bearded Iris, Bearded Iris

• Common names

  Iris 'Handshake' (TB)

Toxicity

• To humans

  Tall Bearded Iris (Iris 'Handshake') is not typically considered highly toxic to humans; however, ingesting parts of this plant, particularly the rhizomes, can cause digestive upset. Symptoms of ingestion might include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. It is advisable to avoid consumption and handle the plant with care to prevent any potential skin irritation from plant juices.

• To pets

  Tall Bearded Iris (Iris 'Handshake') can be toxic to pets if ingested. The rhizomes contain irisin, which can cause symptoms such as drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and abdominal pain. In severe cases, ingestion can lead to more serious issues such as depression of the central nervous system. It is crucial to prevent pets from chewing on or eating any portion of the plant.

Characteristics

• Life cycle

  Perennials

• Foliage type

  Deciduous

• Color of leaves

  Green

• Flower color

  Mixed

• Height

  2-3 feet (60-90 cm)

• Spread

  1-2 feet (30-60 cm)

• Plant type

  Bulb

• Hardiness zones

  3-9

• Native area

  Temperate Northern Hemisphere

General Benefits

• Aesthetic Appeal - The Iris 'Handshake' adds visual interest to gardens with its striking flowers that come in a range of colors, often with beautiful patterns and contrasting hues.
• Landscape Design Versatility - This plant can be used in a variety of landscape designs, from borders and beds to water features and cottage gardens.
• Pollinator Friendly - It attracts butterflies and bees, which are essential for the pollination of plants and the overall health of the garden.
• Seasonal Interest - Provides spring and early summer blooms, offering seasonal variations and interest in the landscape.
• Easy Propagation - Irises can be easily propagated through division, making it simple for gardeners to expand their collection or share with others.
• Drought Tolerant - Once established, they are relatively drought-tolerant, requiring less water compared to other garden plants, thus conserving resources.
• Low Maintenance - Irises require minimal care once established, making them a good choice for gardeners of all skill levels.
• Cold Hardy - They are capable of withstanding cold temperatures, making them suitable for growth in a range of climates.
• Soil Adaptability - Iris 'Handshake' can adapt to various soil types, although they prefer well-drained soils.

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

• The dried rhizomes of the Iris can be ground into a fine powder and used as a natural fixative in potpourri blends to extend the fragrance of other dried flowers and herbs.
• Rhizomes of the Iris can be added to sachets and placed in drawers or closets to impart a pleasant scent to linens and clothing.
• The Iris, specifically its fibrous leaves, can be used in basket weaving to create decorative and functional items for the home.
• The petals of the Iris can be pressed and included in the art of flower pressing, often used for creating bookmarks, greeting cards, and framed botanical art.
• Iris flowers can be crystallized with sugar and used as elegant edible decorations for desserts and cakes.
• The vibrant blooms of the Iris can serve as a natural dye for fabrics, yielding colors ranging from soft yellows to deep purples, depending on the part of the flower used and the mordant applied.
• Iris flowers are sometimes incorporated into perfumes and scented oils, contributing their light and flowery aroma to the fragrance composition.
• The stems and seed pods of the Iris can be arranged in dried floral arrangements, providing structure and interest even after the flowers have faded.
• When planted in large groups, Iris 'Handshake' can create living fences or borders that define areas within a garden and add a seasonal burst of color.
• Eco-printing is a technique where plants are used to transfer their shapes and colors onto paper or fabric; the Iris can be used in this method to create unique patterns and designs.

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: Irises often symbolize hope, representing faith in the future and belief in good things to come.
• Wisdom: The iris is associated with wisdom due to its namesake, the Greek goddess Iris, who was a messenger of the gods and a symbol of communication and enlightenment.
• Courage: In some cultural contexts, the iris signifies courage as it blooms early in the spring, braving the last chills of winter.
• Faith: This flowering plant is emblematic of faith in various religions, evoking a sense of trust and devotion.
• Royalty: Due to its regal appearance, the iris is often related to royalty and nobility.
• Purity: The iris can represent purity and innocence, especially with its delicate and intricate flowers.