Iris Iris 'Tirra Lirra' (SDB)
ABOUT
Iris 'Tirra Lirra' is a captivating plant known for its ornate and colorful flowers. The blooms of this iris feature petals in a harmonious blend of colors. The standard petals, which are the ones that stand upright, usually exhibit swirling shades of soft pastel colors. They can be pale lavender to bluish or sometimes even display a creamy hue. The falls, which are the petals that droop downward, provide a stark contrast with more vibrant and intense colors, often with rich purple, deep violet, or bold maroon shades. These dramatic falls may also include a splash of brighter colors, such as white or yellow, especially towards the base or along the veining, which can give the appearance of a delicate brushstroke on each petal. The flowers also typically showcase a distinct beard, which is a fuzzy line at the center of the falls, often in a bright yellow or orange that stands out against the flower's color palette. This beard sometimes looks like a soft brush sprinkled with pollen that leads into the flower’s throat. The foliage of the Iris 'Tirra Lirra' is slender and sword-like, with glossy, green leaves that emerge from the base of the plant in a fan-like shape. These leaves are slightly arching and are an elegant complement to the flowers. The overall impression of the Iris 'Tirra Lirra' is one of exquisite beauty, with a combination of soft and striking colors that draws the eye and adds a unique touch to any garden setting where color and grace are desired.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Iridaceae.
Synonyms
Standard Dwarf Bearded Iris, Tirra Lirra Iris.
Common names
Iris 'Tirra Lirra' (SDB).
ToxicityTo humans
The Standard Dwarf Bearded Iris, like other iris species, can be toxic if ingested. The rhizomes contain irisin, iridin, or irisine which can cause gastrointestinal disturbance. Symptoms of poisoning may include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. Handling the plant can also cause skin irritation in some individuals. It's generally advised to avoid ingesting any part of the plant and to wear gloves if sensitive skin is an issue.
To pets
The Standard Dwarf Bearded Iris can also be toxic to pets if ingested. The rhizomes contain compounds that can lead to gastrointestinal distress. Symptoms of poisoning in pets may include drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy. As in humans, these plants can also cause dermatitis in some pets upon contact. It is important to prevent pets from chewing on any part of the plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Mixed
Height
1 foot (30 cm)
Spread
1 foot (30 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
6
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Iris 'Tirra Lirra' (Standard Dwarf Bearded Iris) has attractive blooms that enhance garden aesthetics with their unique color and shape.
- Low Maintenance: This iris variety is relatively easy to care for, requiring minimal upkeep once established.
- Drought Tolerance: The Standard Dwarf Bearded Iris is quite tolerant to dry conditions, making it suitable for xeriscaping or gardens with low water availability.
- Pest Resistance: It is generally resistant to many pests, reducing the need for chemical treatments in the garden.
- Diverse Planting Options: It can be used in border plantings, rock gardens, and as a ground cover, offering versatile design options.
- Attracts Pollinators: The flowers of the Standard Dwarf Bearded Iris attract bees and butterflies, promoting pollination in the garden.
- Seasonal Interest: It blooms in the spring, providing striking flowers during early gardening seasons.
- Compact Size: Being a dwarf variety, it fits well in smaller gardens or spaces without overwhelming the area.
Medical Properties- This plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Photography subject: Iris 'Tirra Lirra' provides a unique and striking subject for photographers, especially those interested in capturing the beauty of flowers and garden landscapes.
- Educational model: The distinct petal shapes and color patterns of the Iris 'Tirra Lirra' can be used in botanical studies and classes to illustrate plant anatomy and pollination strategies.
- Artistic inspiration: Artists may use the Iris 'Tirra Lirra' as a muse, painting or drawing the flower to explore color, light, and natural forms.
- Dye source: The petals of Iris 'Tirra Lirra' can be used to create natural dyes for fabrics and crafts, offering hues of blue and purple.
- Culinary decoration: While not commonly eaten, the petals can be used as an edible decoration on salads and desserts to add a pop of color.
- Theme gardens: The Iris 'Tirra Lirra' can be planted as part of a literary-themed garden, since "Tirra Lirra" is a phrase from a poem by Tennyson which can inspire the garden's design.
- Fragrance extraction: The scent of the Iris 'Tirra Lirra' can be used in the production of perfumes or scented oils, although it is less common than other fragrant irises.
- Symbolic gift: The Iris 'Tirra Lirra' can be given as a gift symbolizing hope, faith, and wisdom, reflecting the flower's traditional meanings.
- Floating decorations: Petals or whole blooms of the Iris 'Tirra Lirra' can be floated in bowls of water as decorative elements for events and gatherings.
- Wearable art: With careful handling, the Iris 'Tirra Lirra' can be incorporated into fashion, such as in the creation of floral crowns or boutonnieres for special occasions.
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 represents faith and hope, conveying a message of trust and belief in various mythologies and cultures.
- Wisdom: In some historical contexts, the iris is symbolic of wisdom, perhaps due to its royal associations and the Greek goddess Iris from whom its name is derived.
- Courage: The striking appearance of the iris can signify courage and admiration, symbolizing the valor to overcome challenges.
- Purity: White varieties of irises, in particular, are associated with purity and innocence, traditionally used in weddings and religious ceremonies.
WaterDwarf bearded irises, including the Iris 'Tirra Lirra', should be watered regularly, about once a week, providing 1 inch of water each time to thoroughly moisten the soil. During hot, dry periods, increase the frequency to twice a week. Ensure that the soil is well-draining to prevent water-logging, which can cause rot. It's important to reduce watering as the plant goes dormant after flowering; during this time, watering once every two weeks with just half a gallon per plant is often sufficient. Always check the top couple of inches of soil for dryness before watering to avoid over-hydration.
LightThe Dwarf bearded iris thrives in full sunlight, requiring at least six hours of direct sunlight daily for best growth and flowering. Ideally, plant it in a spot where it will receive morning light and some afternoon shade, particularly in hotter regions, to protect the blooms from intense heat. Good sunlight is essential for the development of strong stems and vibrant flowers.
TemperatureDwarf bearded irises, including the Iris 'Tirra Lirra', prefer temperate climates and can withstand temperatures as low as 20 degrees Fahrenheit during dormancy in winter. They thrive in temperatures between 55 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit which encourages good growth and flowering. It is essential to avoid excessively high temperatures above 90 degrees Fahrenheit as this can negatively impact the plant.
PruningPruning Dwarf bearded irises involves removing spent flower stalks at their base after blooming to promote plant health and appearance. Additionally, in late summer or early fall, trim the leaves to a height of about 4 inches to prepare the plant for winter and reduce disease risk. Pruning is typically done annually or as needed when the foliage becomes brown or damaged.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Dwarf Bearded Iris prefers well-draining soil, rich in organic matter, with a slightly acidic to neutral pH of 6.5 to 7.0. A good mix can be created with equal parts of loamy garden soil, compost, and coarse sand to ensure adequate drainage and fertility.
RepottingDwarf Bearded Iris does not typically require frequent repotting; it is generally recommended to divide and repot these irises every 3-4 years to prevent overcrowding and to rejuvenate their growth.
Humidity & MistingDwarf Bearded Iris tolerates a wide range of humidity levels but thrives in conditions that replicate its native environment, which are moderate, without the need for high humidity.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light, ensure good air circulation.
Outdoor
Full sun, well-draining soil, space rhizomes apart.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleThe Iris 'Tirra Lirra' (SDB), also known as a cultivar of dwarf bearded iris, begins its life cycle as a dormant rhizome that is planted in well-drained soil in late summer or early fall. The plant emerges in spring, producing grass-like foliage and establishing its root system. By late spring to early summer, the iris reaches the flowering stage, presenting showy blooms that are relatively short-lived, typically lasting a few days to a week. After blooming, the iris enters a period of vegetative growth, where it continues to develop foliage and store energy in its rhizome. In late summer to fall, the plant begins to go dormant, with foliage dying back in preparation for winter. The cycle restarts the following spring when temperatures rise and the rhizome sends up new growth, repeating the process annually.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-early summer
Propogation: The Iris 'Tirra Lirra', commonly known as a Standard Dwarf Bearded Iris, is typically propagated through division, the most popular method for this species. The best time to propagate by division is late summer to early fall, after the flowering season has ended, when the plant is dormant. To divide, carefully dig up the clumps of rhizomes and gently separate them, making sure that each division has at least one fan of leaves and a portion of the rhizome. The divisions should then be replanted promptly, at a spacing of about 12 to 18 inches (roughly 30 to 45 centimeters) apart, and at a depth where the top of the rhizome is slightly exposed to the air, as burying it too deep can inhibit blooming. Adequate watering after planting helps reestablish the newly divided irises.
