Siberian Iris Iris 'Kathleen Mary' (Sib)

Names

• Family

  Iridaceae

• Synonyms

  Siberian Iris, Kathleen Mary Iris

• Common names

  Iris sibirica 'Kathleen Mary'

Toxicity

• To humans

  Siberian iris, like many other iris species, contains compounds that can be toxic if ingested. The bulb, or rhizome, of Siberian irises contains irisin, irisine, and iridin which can cause gastrointestinal upset such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. Handling the plant can also cause skin irritation in some individuals due to the presence of these compounds. Therefore, care should be taken to avoid ingestion of any part of the Siberian iris and to wear gloves if you have sensitive skin or known allergies when working with the plant.

• To pets

  Siberian iris may also be toxic to pets, including cats and dogs, if ingested. The plant contains similar compounds which can cause digestive disturbances such as vomiting, drooling, lethargy, and diarrhea. In rare cases, if a large amount of the rhizome is eaten, more severe symptoms such as abdominal pain or excessive salivation may occur. Generally, pets avoid eating the Siberian iris because of its bitter taste, but pet owners should be cautious and prevent their animals from accessing parts of the plant.

Characteristics

• Life cycle

  Perennials

• Foliage type

  Deciduous

• Color of leaves

  Green

• Flower color

  Varies

• Height

  2-3 feet (60-90 cm)

• Spread

  1-2 feet (30-60 cm)

• Plant type

  Bulb

• Hardiness zones

  3

• Native area

  Europe Asia

General Benefits

• Aesthetic Appeal: Adds vibrant colors to the garden with its beautiful blue-purple flowers.
• Pollinator Friendly: Attracts bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects.
• Low Maintenance: Once established, requires minimal care and is relatively drought-tolerant.
• Seasonal Interest: Blooms in late spring to early summer, providing seasonal interest in the garden.
• Cold Hardy: Adapted to survive in colder climates, making it suitable for a variety of landscapes.
• Versatility: Can be planted in borders, beds, and water-side gardens for diverse design uses.
• Propagation: Can be easily divided to propagate new plants and expand garden displays.

Medical Properties

This plant is not used for medical purposes.

Air-purifying Qualities

This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.

Other Uses

• Iris 'Kathleen Mary' can be used as a natural dye, where the flowers provide unique and varied hues for fabrics and textiles.
• The robust and fibrous leaves can be woven into baskets or small articles for household use, showcasing the versatility of the plant.
• Rhizomes of the iris can be dried and incorporated into potpourris for a subtle scent, contributing to the indoor fragrance experience.
• The plant's distinctive flowers can be used in floral art or pressed flower crafts, making decorative bookmarks or framed art pieces.
• Iris 'Kathleen Mary' can be planted in rain gardens due to their tolerance for wet conditions and to aid in rainwater management.
• As a companion plant, the iris can help to visually delineate vegetable garden pathways and discourage animals due to its thick growth.
• The sturdy stems can be used as natural supports for climbing plants in the garden, serving a dual purpose of beauty and function.
• These irises can be used to teach botany and hybridization in educational settings, displaying genetic flower variations.
• The flowering of iris 'Kathleen Mary' can signify the optimum time for planting certain vegetable crops, serving as a phenological indicator.
• Used in ecological landscaping, the iris can attract and support local pollinators such as bees and butterflies, contributing to biodiversity.

Feng Shui

The Iris is not used in Feng Shui practice.

Zodiac Sign Compitability

The Iris is not used in astrology practice.

Plant Symbolism

• Royalty: The Iris carries a regal presence, evoking a sense of royalty and nobility, often associated with its namesake, the Greek goddess Iris who was a messenger for the gods and the personification of the rainbow.
• Hope: It symbolizes hope, a common thread throughout many cultures where the flower is used to inspire people to continue pushing forward.
• Trust: With its upright stance and strong lines, the Iris can represent trust and reliability, suggesting a sturdy allegiance or faithfulness in relationships.
• Wisdom: Historically revered by ancient societies, the Iris is often tied to wisdom, both worldly and spiritual, sometimes used in connection with royalty and divine messengers.
• Valor: The flower has been a symbol of valor and bravery, especially in the context of heraldry and ancient warrior symbols, where it is also known as the fleur-de-lis.
• Purity: Due to its brightness and clean lines, the Iris is also associated with purity, innocence, and chastity, often present in religious ceremonies and rites of passage.