Tall Bearded Iris Iris 'Reflets du Sol' (TB)
ABOUT
Iris 'Reflets du Sol' is a type of Tall Bearded Iris that showcases a remarkable appearance with a distinctive combination of colors. The blooms of this iris are particularly striking, with petals displaying a blend of warm and cool hues that can catch the eye from a distance. The flowers typically have a broad, ruffled form, contributing to their luxurious and full appearance. The petals, known as standards and falls, exhibit a unique color palette. The 'standards' are the upright petals, while the 'falls' are the ones draping downwards. The standards often present lighter shades that may be creamy or pale, contrasting elegantly with the more vividly colored falls. These falls can display deeper, richer tones, which may include purples, blues, or burgundy hues, often with a velvety texture that seems to absorb light. The colors may gradate or blend seamlessly into one another, evoking the impression of a painter's careful brush strokes on canvas. Additionally, the falls may feature ornate veining or a splash of brighter colors towards their center, surrounding the beard of the iris. The beard is a soft, fuzzy section running down the middle of each fall, and it often stands out in a contrasting color, like bright gold or orange, adding depth and dimensionality to the bloom. The leaves of Iris 'Reflets du Sol' are sword-shaped, growing upright and providing a vertical aspect to the plant's structure. Their deep green color makes a fitting backdrop to the showy flowers, highlighting their colors and adding to the plant's overall attractive form. The leaves remain an aesthetic feature throughout the growing season, long after the blooms have faded. The flowers of Iris 'Reflets du Sol' emerge in the late spring to early summer, depending on the climate, offering a seasonal display that signals the transition from spring to the fullness of summertime. As a Tall Bearded Iris, it is a favored choice for gardeners looking for plants that offer both visual impact and a sense of sophistication.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Iridaceae
Synonyms
Tall Bearded Iris, Bearded Iris
Common names
Iris 'Reflets du Sol'
ToxicityTo humans
The plant in question, known by its common name as the Tall Bearded Iris, is not considered highly toxic to humans. However, it is essential to note that the rhizomes (underground stems) of irises contain certain compounds that can induce digestive discomfort if ingested. Symptoms of poisoning from eating parts of the Tall Bearded Iris may include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. Although severe cases are rare, it is advisable to avoid consuming any part of iris plants.
To pets
The Tall Bearded Iris can be toxic to pets if ingested. The primary concern is the rhizomes, which contain irritants that can cause gastrointestinal upset. Symptoms of iris poisoning in pets may include drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, or lack of appetite. While toxicity is typically mild to moderate, ingestion of large quantities could lead to more severe symptoms, and it is recommended to keep pets away from this plant to prevent accidental poisoning.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Mixed
Height
3 feet (91 cm)
Spread
2 feet (61 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
3-9
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Enhances Garden Aesthetics: The Iris 'Reflets du Sol', commonly known as the Tall Bearded Iris, adds striking beauty to gardens with its vibrant flowers.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, Tall Bearded Irises are quite drought-tolerant, reducing the need for frequent watering.
- Low Maintenance: They require minimal care once planted, making them suitable for gardeners of all experience levels.
- Long Blooming Period: Tall Bearded Irises have a generous blooming season, offering a long period of visual interest.
- Attracts Pollinators: These irises are great for attracting bees and butterflies, which are beneficial for pollinating gardens.
- Perennial Growth: As perennials, these plants come back year after year, offering lasting beauty in the landscape.
- Versatility in Landscaping: They can be used in a variety of garden designs, from borders to focal points.
- Deer Resistance: The Tall Bearded Iris is not a favorite of deer, making it a good choice for gardens in areas with deer populations.
- Easy Propagation: They can be easily propagated through division, allowing gardeners to expand their display or share with others.
- Multiplication Over Time: Tall Bearded Irises naturally multiply each year, creating a fuller and more impressive display over time.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Ink Production: The deep color of the iris petals can be used to make natural dyes for inks applied in artistic works and traditional calligraphy.
- Eco-friendly Pesticides: Extracts from iris plants can be used in developing organic pesticides that are less harmful to the environment.
- Floristic Studies: Iris 'Reflets du Sol' contributes to floristic research by providing insights into the biodiversity and hybridization practices within the Iris genus.
- Seasonal Indicator: Its flowering period can act as an indicator of seasonal change, useful in phenological studies and climate change research.
- Photography and Art Subjects: Due to their striking appearance, they are a favored subject for photographers and artists looking to capture natural beauty.
- Perfumery: While not a primary use due to the subtle scent, some iris species are used in the fragrance industry, and Iris 'Reflets du Sol' may contribute a unique note.
- Decorative Crafts: Dried parts of the plant, such as the seed pods, can be used in decorative arrangements or crafts.
- Edible Flowers: Certain parts of some irises are edible and can be used for culinary decoration, though caution is advised as some types can be toxic.
- Tanning Leather: Historically, some iris species were used in the tanning process as a source of tannins, although this is unusual for Iris 'Reflets du Sol'.
- Cultural Symbolism: The plant can serve as a cultural or regional symbol and be featured in festivals and regional emblems.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Iris is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Iris is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Hope - Irises often symbolize hope, with their unfolding petals representing belief in a future.
- Wisdom - The iris is emblematic of wisdom gathered in tranquility, reflecting deep, thoughtful knowledge.
- Courage - Throughout history, irises have been associated with valor and bravery, especially in battle.
- Faith - The plant conveys faith, encompassing trust in oneself and the universe.
- Purity - Its delicate and vibrant bloom is often associated with purity and innocence.
- Royalty - The regal appearance of the iris has made it a symbol of royalty and splendor.
WaterThe Tall Bearded Iris 'Reflets du Sol' should be watered deeply to ensure the roots receive adequate moisture while being careful not to overwater, as Iris plants are tolerant of drought. During the growing season, water approximately once a week, providing about one inch of water, especially if the weather is dry. Once established, they require less water, and you can reduce the frequency. Always allow the soil to dry out between waterings to avoid rot. In terms of quantity, an established Iris might need up to half a gallon every couple of weeks during hot, dry periods.
LightTall Bearded Iris 'Reflets du Sol' thrives in full sun to partial shade. To encourage the best growth and flower production, plant it in a location where it will receive at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. Morning sun is particularly beneficial as it dries the dew from the leaves, reducing the risk of rot and other diseases.
TemperatureTall Bearded Iris 'Reflets du Sol' prefers temperate climates and can generally tolerate temperatures ranging from approximately 14°F to 95°F. Their ideal growing temperature is between 55°F and 75°F. Iris plants can survive brief periods of colder conditions but should be protected from prolonged exposure to extreme cold or frost.
PruningPruning Tall Bearded Iris 'Reflets du Sol' involves removing spent blooms and cutting back the flower stalks to the base after blooming to maintain plant vigor and appearance. Additionally, trim away any brown or damaged leaves throughout the growing season. The best time for pruning is post-flowering and before winter sets in to prepare the plant for the next season.
CleaningNot needed
SoilTall Bearded Iris 'Reflets du Sol' prefers well-draining, fertile soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH, around 6.8 to 7.0. A soil mix of loamy garden soil enriched with compost or well-rotted manure is ideal.
RepottingTall Bearded Irises like 'Reflets du Sol' don't require frequent repotting and do best when undisturbed. However, they should be divided and repotted every 3-4 years to maintain vigor and flower production.
Humidity & MistingTall Bearded Iris 'Reflets du Sol' is tolerant of a range of humidity levels but prefers average to low humidity conditions similar to its native dry grassland habitat.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Not ideal indoors; needs full sun, well-drained soil.
Outdoor
Plant in sunny spot with well-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleThe life of an Iris 'Reflets du Sol', commonly known as a Tall Bearded Iris, begins with seed germination, usually in autumn, which establishes a small rhizome. The rhizome grows and develops roots and leaves, establishing the plant, which will typically remain dormant through the winter. In spring, the iris enters a growth phase, producing long, sword-shaped leaves and a flowering stalk that will bloom into the characteristic large, bearded flowers. After flowering in late spring or early summer, the plant will set seed in a capsule if pollination has occurred. Throughout the summer, the iris will continue to grow vegetatively, storing energy in the rhizome for the next year's growth. Finally, after a few years, the rhizome should be divided to rejuvenate the plant and encourage more vigorous blooming.
PropogationPropogation time
Late Summer to Early Fall
Iris 'Reflets du Sol', also known as Tall Bearded Iris, is commonly propagated through division, which is the splitting of their rhizomes to create new plants. The best time for this is late summer to early fall, after the blooming period when the plant has completed its annual growth cycle. Division helps to rejuvenate clumps that have become too crowded, typically every three to five years. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the clump of irises, taking care not to damage the rhizomes. Wash off the soil and inspect the rhizomes, discarding any that are soft or diseased. Cut the rhizomes into sections, making sure each section has at least one fan of leaves and a portion of the root system attached. Trim the leaves to about one-third of their original height, approximately 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 cm), to reduce water loss and make the plant easier to manage. Replant the sections promptly into well-draining soil, ensuring that the top surface of the rhizome is slightly exposed to the air, as burying it too deeply can lead to rot. Space the divisions about 12 to 24 inches apart (30 to 60 cm) to provide ample room for growth.
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