Tall Bearded Iris Iris 'Wharfedale' (TB)
ABOUT
Iris 'Wharfedale' is a type of Tall Bearded Iris that exhibits a striking and graceful form. The plant boasts a clump of sword-shaped, bright green leaves that provide a lush, vertical aspect to the foliage. The flowers, which are the most captivating feature, are large and ornate. They come in a luscious shade of blue or violet and possess a velvety texture that adds to their exquisite look. Each flower has three upright petals known as standards, and three downward-curving petals called falls, creating a beautifully symmetrical display. The falls often showcase a beard of soft hairs in a contrasting color, which may be white or yellow, and this beard runs down the center of the petal, lending the plant its name. These gorgeous blooms typically appear atop sturdy, upright stems which elegantly rise above the foliage and seem to proudly present the flowers. While in bloom, Iris 'Wharfedale' presents a spectacular show in the garden with its vivid colors and dramatic flower form, embodying the quintessential charm of bearded irises.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Iridaceae
Synonyms
Tall Bearded Iris, Bearded Iris
Common names
Iris 'Wharfedale' (TB)
ToxicityTo humans
The Tall Bearded Iris, specifically the 'Wharfedale' cultivar, is considered only mildly toxic to humans. Ingesting parts of the plant, particularly the rhizomes, can cause stomach upset and irritation to the skin and mucous membranes. Symptoms might include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. Handling the plant can sometimes result in skin irritation or allergic reactions. It is important to wear gloves when working with irises and to wash hands afterwards. If any parts of the plant are ingested, medical attention should be sought, especially in cases involving children, who are more sensitive to the plant's toxins.
To pets
The Tall Bearded Iris, including the 'Wharfedale' variety, contains compounds that can be toxic to pets if ingested. The most toxic parts are the rhizomes, which can cause gastrointestinal symptoms such as drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy in animals. In more severe cases, ingestion could also lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances due to the vomiting and diarrhea. If you suspect your pet has consumed any part of a Tall Bearded Iris, it is important to contact a veterinarian immediately.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Mixed
Height
3 feet (91 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
3
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Adds aesthetic beauty to gardens with its stunning blue-violet flowers and attractive foliage.
- Pollinator Attraction: Draws in bees and butterflies, which are valuable for pollinating garden plants and flowers.
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care once established, making it easy for gardeners of all levels.
- Drought Tolerance: Has the ability to withstand periods of low water availability.
- Seasonal Interest: Offers spring and early summer interest with its vibrant blooms.
- Versatility: Can be used in borders, beds, and as cut flowers for indoor arrangements.
- Long-lived Perennial: Establishes a lasting presence in the garden, reducing the need for frequent replanting.
- Cold Hardy: Capable of surviving and thriving in cooler climates.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Iris 'Wharfedale' can be used as a dye plant, with different parts of the plant producing various shades on textiles.
- The fibers from iris leaves may be utilized in traditional paper-making processes, offering a unique texture and durability.
- When dried, the rhizomes of the plant can be incorporated into potpourri mixes, adding a light, pleasant scent.
- Floral artists may use the seedpods and dried flowers of Iris 'Wharfedale' for creating everlasting arrangements and wreaths.
- The plant can also serve as an educational tool in botany and horticulture courses, illustrating plant breeding and hybrid vigor.
- Its striking appearance makes it an ideal subject for botanical illustration and photography, capturing the diversity of plant morphology.
- In perfumery, the essence of the iris flower can be a unique note, although this is a less common use for this particular species.
- As a natural insect repellent, some claim the iris can repel certain garden pests when planted in strategic positions.
- The robust nature of Iris 'Wharfedale' allows it to be used in erosion control efforts on sloped gardens or banks.
- Finally, the plant can be utilized in creating natural barriers or divisions in garden landscapes, due to its size and foliage density.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Iris is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Iris is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Royalty: The Iris often symbolizes royalty and regal majesty, partly because of its striking presence and its association with the French monarchy, particularly the heraldic fleur-de-lis.
- Wisdom: Irises are frequently associated with wisdom, valued for their insightful nature and often found in scholarly or thoughtful settings.
- Hope: This plant can represent hope, providing a visual encouragement to look forward and maintain positivity.
- Faith: Many cultures associate the Iris with faith, conveying trust in the divine or confidence in beliefs.
- Valor: The sturdy and upright growth of the Iris can symbolize valor, representing courage and bravery.
- Purity: The clean lines and often bright colors of the Iris can denote purity of thought or action.
WaterThe Tall Bearded Iris 'Wharfedale' should be watered deeply but infrequently, ensuring the soil is well-drained to prevent root rot. During the growing season, provide about an inch of water per week. Increase watering to twice a week during hot, dry spells. After blooming, reduce watering to encourage the plant to go dormant properly. It's important not to overwater as these irises are drought-tolerant once established and excessive moisture can harm the plant. Aim to apply water at the base of the plant rather than overhead to avoid wetting the foliage, which can give rise to fungal diseases.
LightTall Bearded Iris 'Wharfedale' thrives best in full sun, requiring at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. To optimize flower production, plant them in a spot where they receive uninterrupted sunlight throughout the day. Partial shade can be tolerated but may result in fewer blooms. Avoid heavily shaded areas to ensure the health and flowering potential of the irises.
TemperatureThe optimal temperature for Tall Bearded Iris 'Wharfedale' growth is between 35 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. However, they can survive in temperatures as low as 10 degrees Fahrenheit and can tolerate summer highs up to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. The rhizomes are winter hardy and can withstand cold winter temperatures, but they benefit from a layer of mulch in areas with harsh winters to prevent frost heave.
PruningThe Tall Bearded Iris 'Wharfedale' should be pruned to remove dead or damaged foliage as well as spent flower stalks to encourage future growth. The best time to prune is immediately after blooming, trimming flower stems close to the base. In late fall, cut back the leaves to about 4-6 inches to tidy the plant and reduce the chance of harboring borers or disease over the winter season. Pruning also helps maintain air circulation around the plant.
CleaningAs needed
SoilTall Bearded Iris 'Wharfedale' thrives in well-draining soil with a pH between 6.8 to 7.0. The best soil mix should be rich in organic matter but still provide excellent drainage to prevent root rot. Amend heavy clay soils with compost and sand to improve texture and fertility.
RepottingTall Bearded Iris 'Wharfedale' is typically not grown in containers and therefore does not require regular repotting. Instead, these irises should be divided every 3 to 5 years in the garden to prevent overcrowding and maintain vigor.
Humidity & MistingTall Bearded Iris 'Wharfedale' is tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels and does not require any specific humidity conditions. They are generally drought-tolerant once established and do well in the open air's natural humidity.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright light, good air flow, and avoid overwatering.
Outdoor
Plant in sunny spot, ensure well-draining soil, divide every 3-5 years.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleIris 'Wharfedale' (Tall Bearded Iris) begins its life as a rhizome, which is a type of underground stem that stores energy. After planting, the rhizome sprouts leaves and roots, establishing itself during the vegetative growth stage. The plant enters a period of dormancy typically in the colder months, during which above-ground growth ceases and the plant conserves energy. During spring, the Iris 'Wharfedale' produces tall stems that yield showy, ornamental flowers, which is its reproductive stage. After flowering, the plant sets seeds in a capsule, although many gardeners propagate the plant by dividing the rhizomes every few years to maintain vigor. Finally, the leaves die back, and the cycle repeats with the rhizome overwintering and restarting the cycle in the following growing season.
PropogationPropogation time
Late summer to autumn
The most popular method of propagation for the Iris 'Wharfedale' (Tall Bearded Iris) is through division. This is usually performed in late summer after the blooming period, when the plant has had a chance to build up energy reserves. To propagate by division, gardeners dig up the iris clumps and gently separate the rhizomes, ensuring each section has at least one fan of leaves and a portion of the roots. These rhizomes are then trimmed, cutting leaves down to about 6 inches (approximately 15 centimeters) to reduce water loss and are replanted in well-draining soil at a shallow depth, with the top of the rhizomes exposed to the air. This technique allows for an increased number of plants and helps to rejuvenate older clumps that may have become overcrowded and less floriferous.
