Dwarf Iris Iris 'Mary McIlroy' (SDB)
ABOUT
The Iris 'Mary McIlroy', a stunning member of the iris family, features a captivating display of petals that catch the eye of any garden enthusiast. Typically, the flower bears two types of petals: the standards and the falls. The standards are the petals that stand upright, while the falls are the ones that gracefully cascade downwards. This particular iris is characterized by its rich and opulent shades. The standards are a lovely soft shade that might remind one of the lighter part of a lavender spectrum, providing a delicate backdrop to the more vividly colored falls. The falls exhibit a deeper hue that is often a striking contrast of rich purple or deep violet, edged with a lighter tone similar to that of the standards. The blooms are often adorned with intricate veining or dotted patterns, which add to their ornamental charm. At the center of each flower, the beards—small, fuzzy extensions on the falls—present a bold pop of color, such as golden yellow or orange, attracting pollinators and adding an extra dimension to the flower's beauty. The leaves of the iris are typically long and sword-shaped, creating an attractive, green, vertical aspect in the garden. The foliage emerges from a clump at the base of the plant, enveloping the flower stalks, which rise gracefully among the blades of leaves. Overall, Iris 'Mary McIlroy' is a stunning plant that exudes elegance and drama through its exquisite bloom colors and contrasting petal types, contributing a spectacular visual appeal to any garden setting where it is planted.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Iridaceae.
Synonyms
Dwarf Bearded Iris, Mary McIlroy Iris, Small Bearded Iris.
Common names
Iris 'Mary McIlroy'
ToxicityTo humans
The Iris 'Mary McIlroy' (commonly referred to simply as Iris) has parts that may be considered toxic if ingested. The rhizomes (underground stems) of irises contain compounds such as irisin, iridin, or irisine, which can cause digestive upset if eaten. Ingesting parts of the Iris can lead to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and in severe cases, it can also result in throat irritation and skin rashes upon contact with the sap. It is advisable for humans to handle the Iris with care and avoid ingesting any part of the plant.
To pets
The Iris 'Mary McIlroy' (commonly known as Iris) can be toxic to pets if they consume it. The rhizomes and potentially the other parts of the plant contain irritating substances like irisin, iridin, or irisine, which can cause gastrointestinal distress in animals. Symptoms of Iris poisoning in pets can include drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and abdominal pain. Pets may also experience skin irritation or allergic reactions should they come into contact with the sap. Owners should ensure that their pets do not ingest any part of the Iris, as it could lead to serious health complications.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Purple
Height
1 foot [30 cm]
Spread
1 foot [30 cm]
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
3
Native area
Temperate Northern Hemisphere
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Appeal: Iris 'Mary McIlroy' offers striking flowers with a distinctive shape, adding visual interest to gardens.
- Low Maintenance: This variety of iris is known for being hardy and requiring minimal care once established, making it a practical choice for gardeners of all levels.
- Drought Tolerance: After establishing a strong root system, it can tolerate periods of drought, reducing the need for frequent watering.
- Seasonal Interest: It provides color and beauty in the spring when the plant blooms, enhancing the seasonal appeal of a garden.
- Attracts Pollinators: The flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinating insects, supporting the local ecosystem.
- Versatility: It is suitable for a variety of garden designs, including borders, rock gardens, and as a specimen plant.
- Perennial Growth: As a perennial, it will return year after year, giving gardeners a long-lasting investment in their landscape.
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 'Mary McIlroy' can be used in artistic photography to lend vibrant color and unique texture to botanical still life arrangements.
- The dried petals of this iris can be incorporated into homemade paper for a decorative touch on greeting cards or stationery.
- The strong, upright leaves can serve as natural supports for lightweight climbing plants in garden arrangements.
- Petals of the iris can be used in the creation of natural dyes for textiles, providing a range of violet and blue hues.
- With its attractive blooms, this iris can be used for educational purposes in schools to teach children about plant biology and hybridization.
- The flower can be pressed and used in botanical illustration, helping to preserve its form for artistic reference.
- In culinary arts, although not commonly eaten, the colorful petals could be used as a decorative edible garnish on special dishes, provided they are free of pesticides.
- As an ornamental motif, Iris 'Mary McIlroy' can inspire designs in fashion and home decor with its bold coloring and petal patterns.
- The subtle scent of the blooms may be captured and used in perfumery for creating light, floral perfume fragrances.
- Blossoms can be used in crafting eco-friendly confetti for celebrations, provided they are picked and dried in a sustainable way.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Iris is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Iris is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Faith: The Iris often symbolizes faith, representing belief and trust in something beyond oneself.
- Hope: The flower's resilience and its ability to bloom year after year make it a symbol of hope and expectation.
- Wisdom: In some cultures, the Iris is associated with wisdom, perhaps due to its regal appearance and connection with deities in mythology.
- Courage: Historically, the Iris has symbolized courage and admiration, as it's a flower that can stand tall and proud.
- Purity: The Iris, particularly in white hues, can represent purity and innocence, often used in religious ceremonies for this reason.
WaterDwarf bearded iris, including the Iris 'Mary McIlroy', should be watered deeply to encourage root growth, especially during the planting and active growth periods. The soil should be kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. Watering once a week with about an inch of water, roughly equivalent to 0.6 gallons per square yard, is often sufficient. However, this may vary depending on climate conditions and soil type, with less frequent watering necessary during rainy seasons or in heavier soils, and more frequent watering may be needed in extremely hot, dry weather.
LightDwarf bearded iris, such as the Iris 'Mary McIlroy', thrive in full sun. They need at least six hours of direct sunlight daily to flower well. The ideal spot for the plant would be a location where it can receive unfiltered sunlight throughout the morning and partial shade in the harshest afternoon light, although they can tolerate full sun all day.
TemperatureDwarf bearded iris, including the Iris 'Mary McIlroy', perform best in temperate climates with a winter chill period. They can typically endure winter temperatures as low as 20°F and tolerate summer temperatures up to 90°F. The ideal temperature range for vigorous growth and flowering is between 60°F and 70°F.
PruningDwarf bearded iris, such as the Iris 'Mary McIlroy', should be pruned by removing old and spent flowers to promote healthy growth and prevent seed production, which can drain the plant's energy. Cut back the flower stalk to the base after blooming. Division and trimming of the foliage can be done in late summer when the rhizomes are overcrowded, typically every 3-5 years.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for a Dwarf Bearded Iris like 'Mary McIlroy' is well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH of 6.5 to 7.0. Mix garden soil with compost and sand to improve drainage, ensuring the rhizomes are not sitting in waterlogged conditions, which can cause rot.
RepottingDwarf Bearded Irises like 'Mary McIlroy' do not typically require regular repotting. They should be divided and transplanted about every 3 to 4 years to prevent overcrowding and to rejuvenate growth. Plant rhizomes shallowly so the top is exposed to the sun.
Humidity & MistingDwarf Bearded Irises such as 'Mary McIlroy' are adaptable to a wide range of humidity levels; however, they prefer drier conditions. They are generally low-humidity tolerant and do not require specific humidity adjustments, making them well-suited to outdoor garden conditions.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright light, good air circulation, and minimal water indoors.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, ensure well-draining soil, divide every 3-4 years.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleThe life of Iris 'Mary McIlroy', commonly known as the Dwarf Bearded Iris, begins with seed germination, which occurs when the conditions are moist and have moderate temperatures. Following germination, the seedlings develop into young plants with a small rosette of sword-shaped leaves. The plant enters a vegetative growth phase, during which it establishes a strong root system and increased foliage. After reaching maturity, the Dwarf Bearded Iris produces distinctive flowers typically in late spring or early summer, showcasing its unique coloration and beard-like features on the falls of the petals. Once pollination occurs, if successful, the plant forms seed pods that eventually dry and release seeds, completing its reproductive cycle. The Iris 'Mary McIlroy' is a perennial and will go through a period of dormancy in the winter months before resuming growth in the spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Late Summer-Fall
The Iris 'Mary McIlroy', a type of Standard Dwarf Bearded Iris (SDB), is commonly propagated through division. The best time to propagate this iris is late summer to early fall, after the blooming season has finished and the plants are entering dormancy. To propagate by division, carefully lift the clump of irises from the ground using a spade or fork. Gently shake off any excess soil and inspect the rhizomes for signs of disease or damage. Using a sharp knife, divide the rhizomes by making clean cuts, ensuring that each division has at least one fan of leaves and a portion of healthy roots. Trim the leaves to about one-third of their height to minimize water loss and replant the divisions at the same depth they were growing before, spacing them about 12 inches (30 centimeters) apart to allow for growth. Water them in well to help establish the new divisions.
