Tall Bearded Iris Iris 'Vanilla Skies' (TB)
ABOUT
The plant known as Iris 'Vanilla Skies' can be characterized by its captivating blossoms that display a blend of pale, creamy yellows and soft, brushing blues. The flower petals are elegantly formed with a smooth, satiny texture, and typically feature a delicate ruffling along their edges which adds to their graceful charm. The flowers possess a classic iris form, which includes three upright petals known as standards that reach skyward while three downward-curling sepals called falls create a striking contrast. At the heart of each bloom, there's often a gentle whisper of deeper color, known as veining or marking, which can add depth to the flower's appearance. The falls may showcase a yellow or bluish beard-like feature which are hair-like extensions that emerge from the throat of the flower. These beards can provide an intriguing focal point and are often a different hue than the rest of the petal, creating an eye-catching visual impact. The foliage of Iris 'Vanilla Skies' typically consists of green, sword-shaped leaves that are sturdy and upright. They form dense clumps around the base of the flower stalks, providing a lush backdrop for the dramatic blooms above. As a perennial, this iris variety returns each year, bringing with it a fresh display of its elegant, sweetly-colored flowers that are suggestive of a clear sky softly brushed with the tones of vanilla-infused clouds.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Iridaceae
Synonyms
Iris, Bearded Iris, Tall Bearded Iris
Common names
Iris 'Vanilla Skies' (TB)
ToxicityTo humans
The Tall Bearded Iris, commonly known as Iris 'Vanilla Skies', is considered mildly toxic to humans. If ingested, the rhizomes (rootstocks) of irises can cause nausea, stomach pains, vomiting, and diarrhea. Handling the plant can sometimes cause skin irritation due to the presence of irritating compounds.
To pets
The Tall Bearded Iris, commonly known as Iris 'Vanilla Skies', is also toxic to pets, particularly cats and dogs. If a pet consumes parts of this plant, especially the rhizomes, it could lead to gastrointestinal symptoms such as vomiting, drooling, lethargy, and diarrhea. In severe cases, ingestion may result in more serious issues. It is important to prevent pets from accessing and consuming any part of this plant to avoid these toxic effects.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Mixed
Height
3 feet (0.91 meters)
Spread
2 feet (0.61 meters)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
Varies
Native area
Varies
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental appeal: Iris 'Vanilla Skies' has striking flowers that can enhance the visual appeal of any garden or landscape.
- Drought tolerance: Once established, these plants can tolerate periods of low water availability.
- Low maintenance: Requires minimal care beyond initial planting and occasional watering, making it suitable for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Cold hardiness: Able to withstand colder climates, which allows for a wide range of planting zones.
- Pollinator friendly: Attracts bees and other beneficial insects that help pollinate other plants in the garden.
- Long blooming period: Flowers in late spring to early summer, offering a prolonged display of beauty.
- Versatility: Suitable for a variety of garden settings, including borders, beds, and as cut flowers for indoor enjoyment.
- Soil adaptability: Adapts to a range of soil types, though it prefers well-draining conditions.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- The dried root of the iris can be used to create a natural dye, which is typically a yellow or golden hue, depending on the mordant used.
- Iris rhizomes can be used in potpourri mixes for adding a light, floral fragrance to a room.
- The plant's sturdy leaves can be woven into baskets or used to create a form of natural textile for decorative purposes.
- Dried iris petals can be incorporated into homemade paper for a unique texture and appearance.
- Essential oils distilled from the iris flowers are used in perfumery, due to their delicate scent.
- When planted in a garden, irises can serve as a natural pest deterrent for certain types of insects.
- The juice from iris flowers can be used as a pH indicator, as it changes color when added to solutions of varying acidity or alkalinity.
- As a subject in photography and painting, irises can offer artists a beautiful and captivating subject with their elegant form and color.
- The extensive root system of irises can help reduce soil erosion when planted in vulnerable areas such as slopes or riverbanks.
- Iris petals can be used to adorn culinary dishes, adding an impressive flourish for food presentation, though one should ensure they are safe and free of pesticides.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Iris is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Plant Symbolism- Hope: The iris is often associated with hope, symbolizing an expectation of positive outcomes and good things to come.
- Wisdom: Historically, the iris represents wisdom, reflecting a deep understanding and valuable insights.
- Trust: Gifting someone an iris can signify trust, conveying a message of faith and confidence in the person.
- Purity: The light, vanilla-like tones of Iris 'Vanilla Skies' evoke a sense of purity and innocence.
- Royalty: With its regal appearance, the iris is frequently tied to nobility and royals, representing sovereignty and power.
- Valor: The iris may symbolize courage and admiration for someone’s bravery.
- Faith: Often found in religious contexts, the iris is seen as a symbol of faith and divine guardianship.
WaterThe Tall Bearded Iris, commonly known as 'Vanilla Skies', should be watered deeply to saturate the root zone and then allowed to dry out somewhat between waterings. This can typically mean providing about an inch of water per week, which translates to approximately 0.623 gallons for a square foot. During the active growth period in spring and early summer, regular watering is important, especially in the absence of rainfall. However, once established, these irises are quite drought-tolerant and excessive water can lead to root rot. It's better to water less frequently but thoroughly, ensuring the water penetrates deep into the soil rather than just wetting the surface.
LightThe Tall Bearded Iris 'Vanilla Skies' thrives best in full sun conditions, where it can receive at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. The ideal spot for it would be in an area where it's exposed to unfiltered sunlight for most of the day. Dappled sunlight can be tolerated but may result in fewer blooms. Avoid planting in full shade as it will not bloom well and its health could be compromised.
TemperatureTall Bearded Irises, such as 'Vanilla Skies', enjoy temperate climates and can tolerate a temperature range from approximately -20°F to 86°F. The ideal temperatures for optimal growth are between 35°F and 70°F. These irises go dormant in winter, which allows them to withstand cold temperatures quite well, but they thrive in the moderate warmth of spring.
PruningPruning of the Tall Bearded Iris 'Vanilla Skies' should be done to remove dead or damaged foliage and spent flower stalks, helping to encourage healthy growth and prevent disease. This can be done after blooming and again in late fall, to prepare the plant for winter. In addition, remove any brown or unhealthy leaves during the growing season to keep the plant tidy and healthy. The best time for major pruning is post-flowering or in autumn before the winter rest.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Tall Bearded Iris 'Vanilla Skies' prefers a well-draining soil mix with a slightly acidic to neutral pH of 6.5 to 7.0. Incorporate organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure for optimal growth.
RepottingTall Bearded Irises, including 'Vanilla Skies', generally do not need frequent repotting and can thrive in the same location for several years. Divide and repot every 3 to 4 years to maintain vigor.
Humidity & MistingTall Bearded Iris 'Vanilla Skies' tolerates a wide range of humidity levels and does not require high humidity, making it adaptable to typical outdoor conditions.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure full sun, good airflow, and well-drained potting mix.
Outdoor
Plant in well-drained soil; full sun to partial shade.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleThe Tall Bearded Iris 'Vanilla Skies' begins its life as a rhizome, which is planted just below the surface of the soil. In spring, new growth emerges, with leaves unfurling and forming characteristic sword-like foliage. As the plant matures, flower stalks develop and blossoms typically appear in mid to late spring, showcasing the creamy white and blue-violet petals. After blooming, seed pods may form, containing seeds that can be harvested and sown or left to disperse naturally. Throughout the growing season, the foliage continues to photosynthesize, storing energy in the rhizomes for the next season. The plant enters dormancy in the winter, with the foliage dying back, and then the cycle begins anew with the return of warmer weather in spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Late Summer to Early Fall
Iris 'Vanilla Skies', a Tall Bearded (TB) Iris, is often propagated through division of its rhizomes. The best time for dividing and propagating irises is typically late summer to early fall, after the flowering period has ended and several weeks before the first hard freeze is expected. This timing allows the new divisions to establish roots before the onset of winter. To propagate, a gardener would carefully dig up the iris clump, then gently pull or cut apart the rhizomes, ensuring that each division has at least one fan of leaves and a portion of the root system attached. It's important to trim the leaves into a fan shape, about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) tall, to reduce water loss and make planting easier. After dividing, the rhizome should be replanted so that the top is slightly exposed to the air, in well-draining soil, ideally with the fan of leaves facing towards the sun.
