Bearded Iris Iris 'Tarot' (BB)
ABOUT
Iris 'Tarot' is a striking plant known for its showy flowers that make it a standout in any garden. The blooms of this Iris are typically a rich, deep purple color with lighter, often white, streaks or marks that create an intriguing pattern reminiscent of the mysterious and esoteric images associated with tarot cards. Each flower flaunts stunning petals that can have a velvety texture and are arranged in a classic Iris form, with three upright petals known as 'standards' and three downward-curving petals called 'falls'. The standards are usually lighter in hue, while the falls often display a more intense coloration with a prominent, often contrasting, 'beard' - a fuzzy, caterpillar-like area that runs down the middle of the petal. The leaves of Iris 'Tarot' are sword-shaped, long, and slender with a bright green color, emerging as fans from the base of the plant. These leaves complement the bold blossoms and provide a lush backdrop for the dramatic flowers.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Iridaceae
Synonyms
Border Bearded Iris
Common names
Iris 'Tarot' (BB).
ToxicityTo humans
The Bearded Iris, including the variety 'Tarot' (BB), is not typically considered highly toxic to humans, but it can have some adverse effects if ingested. The rhizomes (underground stems) are where the majority of the plant's potential irritants reside. If any part of the plant is ingested, the person may experience digestive discomfort, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. Handling the plant, especially the rhizomes, can cause skin irritation in some individuals. It is advisable to keep the Bearded Iris out of reach of children, who might be tempted to ingest its parts.
To pets
The Bearded Iris, including the variety 'Tarot' (BB), can be toxic to pets if ingested. The plant contains compounds that can irritate the gastrointestinal tract of animals. Symptoms of Bearded Iris poisoning in pets may include drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, or abdominal pain. In severe cases, ingestion can lead to more serious gastrointestinal complications. It is important to prevent pets from accessing and ingesting any part of the plant, especially the rhizomes which contain the highest concentration of irritants. If you suspect your pet has ingested Bearded Iris, contact your veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Purple
Height
2 feet (0.61 meters)
Spread
1 foot (0.30 meters)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
Varies
Native area
Varies
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Iris 'Tarot' (Bearded Iris) adds aesthetic appeal to gardens with its striking flowers and foliage.
- Drought Tolerance: Bearded Iris is relatively drought-tolerant, making it suitable for gardens with limited water availability.
- Easy Maintenance: This plant is known for being low maintenance, requiring minimal care once established.
- Pest Resistance: Bearded Iris generally has good resistance to pests, reducing the need for chemical treatments.
- Cold Hardy: It is capable of withstanding cold temperatures, making it suitable for a wide range of climates.
- Versatility in Landscaping: Bearded Iris can be used in various landscaping settings, including borders, beds, and as focal points.
- Long Blooming Period: This variety often has a lengthy blooming period, providing color and interest in the garden for an extended time.
- Attracts Pollinators: The vibrant flowers attract bees and butterflies, aiding in the pollination of the garden ecosystem.
- Multiplication Over Time: Bearded Iris can multiply and form clumps over the years, which can be divided and spread to other garden areas.
- Seasonal Interest: Providing distinct foliage and form, Bearded Iris contributes to the seasonal interest in a garden landscape.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Watercolor Dye: The blossoms of the Iris 'Tarot' can be used to make natural watercolor dyes, providing unique hues for artists who prefer using natural sources for their palette.
- Fiber Dyeing: The petals and possibly the roots of the Iris can be used for dyeing fibers such as wool or silk, offering a sustainable alternative to synthetic dyes.
- Photography: The striking appearance of Iris 'Tarot' makes it an excellent subject for botanical photography, blending the art of horticulture with visual arts.
- Eco-Printing: Leaves of the Iris can be used in eco-printing, a process where plants leave their shapes, color, and marks on fabric or paper.
- Fragrance Extraction: Though not common for the 'Tarot' variety, some Iris species are known for their rhizomes being used in the perfume industry.
- Edible Decoration: The petals of some Iris species are edible and can be crystallized or used fresh to decorate cakes and desserts, although one should confirm this specific variety’s edibility first.
- Floral Arrangements: Iris 'Tarot' adds a dramatic touch to floral arrangements for events and can be a focal point in bouquets due to its bold colors and large flowers.
- Teaching Botany: This plant can serve as a learning tool in botany classes, to teach about plant anatomy and the life cycle of perennials.
- Garden Design: Irises can be used in thematic garden designs, including moon gardens, where their light-colored blossoms can reflect moonlight.
- Crafting: Dried Iris flowers can be used in crafting, such as in the making of potpourri, natural ornaments, or pressed flower art.
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: The iris often symbolizes hope, as it blooms in the spring, bringing color after the long winter.
- Wisdom: Associated with the Greek goddess Iris, who was a messenger and linked to communication and new endeavors.
- Faith: In many cultures, the iris is seen as a symbol of faith and is often included in religious artwork.
- Courage: Due to its upright petals that stand tall and strong, the iris can represent courage and admiration.
- Royalty: The shape and regal stance of the iris have historically made it a symbol of royalty and noble bearing.
WaterThe Border Bearded Iris 'Tarot' should be watered deeply to saturate the root zone and then allowed to dry slightly before the next watering. It's important to avoid overwatering, as standing water can cause root rot. Generally, watering once a week is sufficient, but this may need to be adjusted depending on climate conditions; in hot, dry weather, you might need to water twice a week. When watering, apply approximately one gallon of water per plant, ensuring it reaches the roots without flooding the area.
LightThe Border Bearded Iris 'Tarot' thrives in full sun conditions but can tolerate partial shade. The ideal spot for the plant is where it can receive at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. Avoid places that are shaded for most of the day, as insufficient sunlight can affect the plant's blooming and overall vitality.
TemperatureBorder Bearded Iris 'Tarot' prefers temperate climates with temperatures ranging from 30 degrees Fahrenheit at night to 95 degrees Fahrenheit during the day for optimal growth. They can survive brief periods of colder winter temperatures down to around 20 degrees Fahrenheit but should be protected from prolonged freezing. The ideal growing temperatures are between 55 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit.
PruningPrune the Border Bearded Iris 'Tarot' by removing spent flower stems to the base after blooming to promote healthy growth and prevent seed formation. Additionally, cut back the foliage to about 6 inches in late fall to keep the plant tidy and reduce the risk of disease. Pruning is typically done once a year but inspect regularly for damaged or diseased leaves, which should be removed when spotted.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for the Border Bearded Iris 'Tarot' should be well-draining, moderately fertile, and slightly acidic to neutral in pH (6.1 to 7.0). A mix of loamy garden soil, compost, and coarse sand is ideal to provide proper aeration and nutrients.
RepottingBorder Bearded Irises including 'Tarot' generally do not require frequent repotting; they should be divided and replanted about every 3 to 4 years to prevent overcrowding and to rejuvenate the plant.
Humidity & MistingBorder Bearded Iris 'Tarot' is tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels and does not have specific humidity requirements. They will thrive in the humidity levels typically found in temperate gardens.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Sunlit spot, well-draining pot; limit watering, room temp.
Outdoor
Full sun, well-draining soil, space rhizomes apart.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleThe Iris 'Tarot' (BB), commonly known as the Border Bearded Iris, begins its life cycle when a rhizome is planted in well-drained soil during late summer. In the first stage, the rhizome germinates and produces roots and shoots, entering a vegetative phase where foliage develops from the rhizome. As the plant matures, it forms a fan of sword-like leaves, and in the following spring, it enters the blooming stage, producing distinctive, colorful flowers. After flowering, the plant enters a period of dormancy, particularly in hotter climates, where it conserves energy. Throughout the growing season, the rhizome expands, creating offsets or 'pups', which can be divided and replanted to propagate the plant. Finally, as winter approaches, the foliage may die back, and the plant goes into a state of rest, reserving resources in the rhizome until the next growing season.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
Propogation: The most popular method of propagation for the Iris 'Tarot', a type of Bearded Iris, is through division of the rhizomes. The ideal time for propagating Bearded Irises through division is in late summer to early fall, after they have finished blooming and when they are dormant. To propagate, carefully dig up the clumps of Iris plants, making sure to lift the rhizomes out of the soil. Gently shake off any excess soil and then use a sharp, clean knife to cut the rhizomes apart, ensuring that each section has at least one fan of leaves and a portion of the roots. Trim the leaves to about one-third of their height, approximately 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters), to reduce water loss and give the plant a balanced aspect. Replant the divisions at the same depth they were growing before, spacing them about 12 to 24 inches (30 to 61 centimeters) apart to give them ample room to grow. Water the newly planted rhizomes thoroughly to help them establish in their new location.
