Bearded Iris
The swordlike blue green leaves protruding in a colonized cluster display a striking contrast in any flower bed. The tall sturdy flower stem can reach up to twenty eight inches or more, looks like delicate crepe paper and velveteen. Its fragrance hints of lilac and candy can be alluring. This poor man s orchid comes in a kaleidoscope of every color (except fire engine red) which is why irises were named after the Greek goddess Iris, goddess of the rainbow.From a historical point of view, the tall bearded iris goes back twenty or more generations from a gene pool of ten species of Old World and Mediterranean iris. The fleur-de-lis design used on the French royal standard was modeled after the iris. Today’s hybrids, which comprise of approximately two hundred species are far more voluptuous and grandiose than their ancestors.
The bearded iris blossom is made up of three upright petals called the standards and three drooping petals called falls. The beard refers to the velvet strip inside the flower. Their rhizomes love to bask in full sun, although I found part shade to be acceptable. The important factor for growing bearded iris is that they need a well- drained soil. A wet environment can lead to rot as well as invite other problems such as iris borer.
It is best to plant bearded iris in mid-July through September, although in areas with hot summers and mild winters, September or October may be better. Plant the rhizome tops right at the soil level and point the growing tips outward of the circle or triangle, 12 to 24 inches apart. Keep the beds clean and free of vegetation and mulch for winter protection. Iris should be divided every three or four years. If allowed to become overcrowded, blooming will decline and other disease problems can occur.
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