Tall Bearded Iris Iris 'Meg's Mantle' (TB)
ABOUT
Iris 'Meg's Mantle' (TB) is a type of Bearded Iris known for its striking decorative flowers. The blooms of this plant exhibit a rich combination of colors, typically featuring a beautiful blend of purple, blue, and lavender shades. The petals can present a gradient, transitioning from deep, lush tones at the edges to lighter hues near the center. Each flower has multiple layers of petals, with the lower "falls" displaying ruffled edges and often showcasing a beard with a contrasting color, which can be gold or orange, adding to the visual interest of the flower. The foliage of Iris 'Meg's Mantle' is also noteworthy, with long, sword-like leaves that are a vibrant green. These leaves grow upward and outwards, forming a fan-like structure that serves as a lush backdrop to the spectacular blooms. The leaves are thick and can have a slightly arching habit, providing a solid foundation for the tall flower stalks that rise above the greenery, each stalk capable of bearing multiple buds and flowers. Overall, the plant exhibits a symmetrical form, with blooms arranged artistically atop the upright foliage. The intricate details of the flowers, such as the veining and the delicate textural differences on the petals, are what make this particular Bearded Iris cultivar a standout in any garden setting, known for its beauty and the sophisticated flair it brings to the landscape.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Tall Bearded Iris, Bearded Iris
Common names
Iris 'Meg's Mantle' (TB)
ToxicityTo humans
Bearded iris, including the cultivar 'Meg's Mantle', contain compounds that may cause irritation if ingested. While they are not typically considered highly toxic to humans, eating parts of the plant, particularly the rhizomes (the root-like structures), can lead to stomach pains, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Handling the plant may also result in skin irritation for sensitive individuals. It is advisable not to consume any part of the bearded iris and to exercise caution when handling the plant to avoid potential adverse reactions.
To pets
Bearded iris can be toxic to pets if ingested. Similar to humans, the primary concern is with the rhizomes, which contain irritant compounds. If a pet consumes parts of a bearded iris, it may exhibit symptoms such as gastrointestinal upset, including vomiting and diarrhea. In severe cases, ingestion may lead to drooling, lethargy, and abdominal pain. It is important to prevent pets from chewing on or ingesting the bearded iris to avoid these adverse effects.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Mixed
Height
3 feet [91 cm]
Spread
2 feet [60 cm]
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
3
Native area
Temperate Northern Hemisphere
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Iris 'Meg's Mantle' adds aesthetic appeal to gardens with its colorful and showy flowers.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, it requires minimal watering, making it suitable for xeriscaping and drought-prone areas.
- Low Maintenance: It typically requires little care beyond the occasional removal of dead foliage and spent flowers.
- Pollinator Friendly: The blooms attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, supporting local ecosystems.
- Seasonal Interest: Provides vibrant spring color and can create seasonal interest in garden beds and borders.
- Perennial Growth: As a perennial, it returns year after year, reducing the need for annual replanting.
- Erosion Control: The robust root system can help stabilize soil and prevent erosion.
- Versatility: Suitable for a variety of garden styles, including formal, cottage, and contemporary landscapes.
- Cold Hardy: Able to withstand cold winters, making it viable in many temperate regions.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- The rhizomes of bearded iris can be dried and ground to be used as a stabilizing agent for natural cosmetics, such as homemade face powders, as they provide a silkier texture to the products.
- Dried bearded iris petals can be incorporated into potpourri mixes for their subtle scent and decorative appearance, enhancing the visual appeal of the mixture.
- Bearded iris flowers can be used in floral art, such as pressing for decorative craft purposes, like making bookmarks or embellishing homemade cards and invitations.
- The fibers from bearded iris leaves can be extracted and used in the manufacturing of specialty papers, offering a sustainable source of raw material for paper artisans.
- Bearded iris blossoms can be crystallized with sugar and used as elegant, edible decorations for cakes and desserts, providing a touch of color and gourmet flair.
- The blooms of the bearded iris are sometimes used in perfumery, contributing to the floral notes of a fragrance composition, though its essence is not commonly extracted due to the delicate nature of the scent.
- A natural dye can be made from the petals of the bearded iris, offering hues ranging from soft blues to deep purples, suitable for coloring fabrics or inks.
- The large, broad leaves of the bearded iris can serve as natural wraps for small parcels or as biodegradable packaging material, adding an eco-friendly touch to gifts.
- Bearded iris plants can be used in garden ponds as ornamental features, where they thrive in the water-logged soil and can provide shade for aquatic life.
- In the past, iris rhizomes were used as a source of scent for linens and clothing when stored with them, although this is not a common practice with modern synthetic fragrances.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Iris is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Iris is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Royal Splendor: The Iris is often associated with royalty and its majestic appearance. 'Meg's Mantle' with its regal bearing, might symbolize splendor and majesty.
- Hope and Trust: The iris carries a message of hope and trust, conveying a feeling of anticipation for something better.
- Wisdom: Irises are symbolic of wisdom and intelligence because of the Greek Goddess Iris, who was a messenger for the gods and a link between heaven and earth.
- Purity: The iris is often associated with purity and innocence, which could suggest a pure spirit or a clear mind.
- Valor: The flowers of an Iris can symbolize valor and bravery, likely stemming from their upright and striking appearance.
- Faith: The iris is also representative of faith, showing belief and trust in something beyond one's self.
- Hope: Linked with hope, Irises are harbingers of good news and positive outcomes.
WaterTall Bearded Iris should be watered deeply but infrequently once they are established. During the growing season, especially in dry climates, watering every 7 to 10 days is usually sufficient, providing about one inch of water each time. It's crucial to avoid overwatering as this can promote root rot. During the bloom period or very hot weather, you might need to increase watering slightly. After flowering, reduce watering to encourage the plant to go dormant in preparation for the hot summer.
LightTall Bearded Iris thrives in full sun locations. They need a minimum of six hours of direct sunlight every day to bloom well. The ideal spot is where they can receive uninterrupted sunlight throughout the day, without shade from trees or buildings.
TemperatureTall Bearded Iris can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but they perform best in conditions between 55 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. They can survive winter temperatures as low as 14 degrees Fahrenheit and summer temperatures exceeding 90 degrees Fahrenheit.
PruningPrune Tall Bearded Iris by removing spent flower stalks at their base after blooming to promote plant health and prevent seed formation. In late summer or early fall, trim away any brown or damaged leaves. Division and pruning of the rhizomes should occur every 3 to 5 years, typically in late summer after flowering.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Tall Bearded Iris 'Meg's Mantle' prefers well-draining soil enriched with organic matter with a slightly acidic to neutral pH of 6.5 to 7. A good soil mix can be composed of garden loam, compost, and coarse sand to ensure proper drainage and fertility.
RepottingTall Bearded Iris 'Meg's Mantle' typically does not require frequent repotting and should be divided and replanted every 3 to 5 years to rejuvenate and prevent overcrowding.
Humidity & MistingTall Bearded Iris 'Meg's Mantle' is tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels and does not require specific conditions; average outdoor humidity is generally suitable.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright light, cool temperatures, and ventilation.
Outdoor
Full sun, well-drained soil, divide every 3-5 years.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleIris 'Meg's Mantle', commonly known as a Tall Bearded Iris, begins its life as a seed, which germinates in the spring after experiencing a cold period that breaks its dormancy. As a perennial, it emerges from rhizomes that grow horizontally, developing a fan of sword-shaped leaves and sending up flower stalks each spring, typically flowering from late spring to early summer. After blooming, the flowers fade and seed pods may form, containing seeds for potential new plants, but division of rhizomes is the more effective method of propagation. During summer, the foliage continues to photosynthesize and store energy in the rhizomes. In the fall, the foliage begins to die back as the plant enters a period of dormancy, though the rhizomes remain alive underground. It recommences growth the following spring, repeating the cycle, with division of rhizomes recommended every 3-4 years to maintain plant vigor and flower quality.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
Iris 'Meg's Mantle', commonly known as Tall Bearded Iris, is best propagated through division of its rhizomes. The optimal time for this practice is late summer to early fall, after the blooming period has ended and the plants have gone dormant. To propagate, one should carefully dig up the clumps of irises and gently shake off any excess soil. Using a sharp knife, divide the rhizomes by cutting them apart, ensuring that each division has at least one fan of leaves and a portion of healthy roots. Trim the leaves to about a third of their height, which is roughly 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters), to reduce water loss and make planting easier. The divisions should then be replanted in well-draining soil with the rhizome just barely visible above the soil surface, spaced about 12 to 24 inches (30 to 60 centimeters) apart to allow for growth. Water the newly planted divisions well to help establish them. This method encourages rejuvenation of the clump and helps to maintain the health and vigor of the plants.
