Siberian Iris Iris 'Peter Hewitt' (Sib)
ABOUT
Iris 'Peter Hewitt' is a captivating plant that is part of the Siberian Iris group, distinguished by its elegant and colorful blossoms. The flowers showcase a combination of rich, velvety purple and gold hues that create a striking contrast that is sure to draw attention. This plant's blooms are characterized by their unique shape with three upright petals, known as standards, which are complemented by three lower falling petals called falls. The falls typically display a slightly lighter shade or a different color, often adorned with delicate veining or speckles, which add to the intricate beauty of each flower. The foliage of Iris 'Peter Hewitt' is also notable, forming a dense clump of grass-like leaves. These leaves are slender, long, and with a slight arch, they lend an aesthetic of graceful, vertical lines to the garden. The overall structure of the plant is such that it provides a lush backdrop for the blooms, which emerge on sturdy stems that rise above the foliage in the blooming season. The leaves maintain their attractive appearance throughout the growing season, adding texture and a deep green color to the garden even when the plant is not in bloom. Overall, the Iris 'Peter Hewitt' is a showy and elegant addition to any garden, with its distinctive blossoms and attractive foliage creating an eye-catching display.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Iridaceae
Synonyms
Siberian Iris
Common names
Iris sibirica 'Peter Hewitt'
ToxicityTo humans
The Siberian iris, specifically Iris 'Peter Hewitt', like other iris species, is considered to have a low level of toxicity to humans. If ingested, it could potentially cause mild stomach upset, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. Handling the plant may also cause skin irritation due to the presence of irisin, which is found in the rhizomes and can be irritating to some individuals' skin. It is not considered to be severely poisonous, but it is still advisable to avoid ingesting any part of the plant and to wash hands after handling it.
To pets
The Siberian iris can also be toxic to pets if ingested. The primary concern with the Siberian iris for pets is the rhizomes which contain irritant compounds. If a pet ingests parts of the iris, particularly the rhizomes, they could experience symptoms such as gastrointestinal upset, including vomiting, drooling, and diarrhea. In some cases, there might be abdominal pain or more severe gastrointestinal distress. It is recommended to keep pets away from the Siberian iris and to consult a veterinarian if you suspect your pet has consumed any part of the plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Blue
Height
2-3 feet (60-90 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
4
Native area
Temperate Northern Hemisphere
Benefits
General Benefits- Attractive Flowers: Produces showy violet-blue blossoms that enhance garden aesthetics.
- Pollinator Friendly: Attracts bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects to the garden.
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care once established, making it suitable for novice gardeners.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, it can withstand periods of low water availability.
- Cold Hardy: It is resistant to cold and can survive in colder climates down to USDA zone 3.
- Deer Resistance: Its foliage and blooms are typically resistant to browsing by deer.
- Ornamental Seed Pods: After flowering, it produces interesting seed pods that add visual interest.
- Seasonal Interest: Offers multiple seasons of interest with its spring blooms and attractive foliage.
- Versatile Planting: Suitable for borders, water gardens, and as a specimen plant.
- Soil Adaptability: Adapts to various soil conditions, though it prefers well-drained soils.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Siberian iris fibers can be used in the production of handmade paper, as they provide an interesting texture and color to the paper.
- The stems and leaves of Siberian iris can be used in basket weaving, giving a decorative touch to the final product.
- Dried Siberian iris plants can be integrated into potpourri mixes for a natural aesthetic element, although they do not have a strong scent.
- The strong, upright form of Siberian iris can serve as a natural fence or border in garden design when planted in a row.
- Pressed Siberian iris flowers can be used in art projects, such as in botanical prints or to embellish greeting cards and bookmarks.
- Siberian iris can contribute to erosion control because of their extensive root systems, which help to hold soil in place.
- Flower photography enthusiasts might choose Siberian iris as a subject due to its striking color and form, perfect for macro photography.
- During educational activities, the various parts of Siberian iris can be used to help students learn about plant biology and pollination processes.
- The plant can be part of a rain garden, as Siberian iris is tolerant of wet conditions and can help with water management in landscaped areas.
- Siberian iris can provide habitat and food for certain insects, supporting biodiversity in a garden setting.
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, embodying the expectation of good things to come.
- Wisdom: Throughout history, the Iris has been associated with wisdom and cherished for its meaning of knowledge.
- Purity: As a flower that emerges from murky waters yet blooms beautifully, an Iris is representative of purity and innocence.
- Courage: The Iris was a symbol of power in ancient Egypt, and it's often associated with valor and bravery.
- Royalty: With its regal appearance, the Iris sometimes signifies royalty and a sense of majesty.
- Faith: In various cultures, Irises carry the symbolism of faith and belief in the divine or higher powers.
WaterFor the Siberian Iris 'Peter Hewitt', it's important to maintain consistent moisture, especially during the growing season. Water the plant thoroughly once a week, providing about 1 to 1.5 gallons per square yard of soil, ensuring that the water penetrates deeply into the ground to reach the roots. During hot or dry spells, you may need to water more frequently to prevent the soil from drying out completely. In cooler weather or when rainfall is adequate, reduce the watering frequency accordingly.
LightSiberian Iris 'Peter Hewitt' thrives best in full sun to partial shade. Plant it in a spot where it will receive at least six hours of sunlight each day. If you live in an area with very hot summers, some afternoon shade can help protect the plant from the intense heat.
TemperatureSiberian Iris 'Peter Hewitt' is cold-hardy and can survive in temperatures as low as -40 degrees Fahrenheit, making it suitable for many climates. The ideal temperature range for this iris is between 50 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit, though it can tolerate summer temperatures up to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Avoid planting in areas where temperatures consistently exceed this range.
PruningPrune Siberian Iris 'Peter Hewitt' to remove spent flowers and encourage further blooming. After blooming has finished for the season, cut back the flower stalks to the base of the plant. In late fall, trim back the foliage to a height of about 4 inches to tidy up the plant and prepare it for winter. The best time for pruning is immediately after flowering and in the fall before the first frost.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Siberian Iris prefers well-drained, moderately fertile soil with a pH of slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0 to 7.0). A good soil mix can be composed of loamy garden soil, compost, and peat moss to improve drainage and fertility.
RepottingSiberian Irises generally do not need to be repotted often; repotting or dividing is usually done every 3 to 5 years to rejuvenate the plants and prevent overcrowding.
Humidity & MistingSiberian Irises are not particularly humidity-sensitive, thriving in average outdoor humidity levels; they do not have specific humidity requirements when grown outdoors.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright indirect light and cool temps.
Outdoor
Full sun to part shade, fertile moist soil.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleThe Siberian Iris 'Peter Hewitt' begins its life cycle as a dormant rhizome, which, upon planting in late summer to early fall, will develop roots and occasionally minimal top growth. In spring, this perennial emerges with sword-like foliage, followed by flowering stems that bear distinctive lilac to blue-violet blooms typically in late spring to early summer. After the flowering period, the plant continues to maintain its attractive foliage, adding structure to garden beds. As the growing season progresses, the foliage dies back, and the plant enters a period of summer dormancy, particularly if conditions are dry. Vegetative division occurs every 3-4 years to maintain vigor and flower quality; this is typically done post-flowering or in early fall. The cycle repeats yearly, with the plant potentially living for many years with proper care and division to rejuvenate the clumps.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
Propogation: Iris 'Peter Hewitt', also known as a type of Siberian iris, is typically propagated through division, which is the most popular method for its reproduction. The best time to divide and thus propagate Siberian irises is in the late summer to early fall, after flowering has ended but with enough time for the plants to establish before the onset of cold weather. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the clump of iris plants, aiming to cause as little root disturbance as possible. Wash the dirt off the roots so that the individual rhizomes are visible. With a sharp, sterilized knife, cut the rhizomes apart ensuring that each division has at least one healthy fan of leaves and a good section of roots. Trim the leaves to about a third of their height to reduce water loss. Then, replant the divisions at the same soil depth they were growing before, spaced about 18 to 24 inches (approximately 45 to 60 centimeters) apart to allow for growth and air circulation.
