Iris danfordiae (Dwarf Iris)
Iris danfordiae is a superb Dwarf Iris with vibrant primrose-yellow flowers, up to 2 in. across (5 cm), beautifully adorned with tiny chocolate speckles on each fall. The foliage of slender, grass-like, gray-green leaves elongates after flowering, up to 12 in. long (30 cm).
Iris danfordiae is a superb Dwarf Iris with vibrant primrose-yellow flowers, up to 2 in. across (5 cm), beautifully adorned with tiny chocolate speckles on each fall. The foliage of slender, grass-like, gray-green leaves elongates after flowering, up to 12 in. long (30 cm). Blooming in late winter to early spring, these pretty flowers (usually 1-2 per bulb) are rich with a sweet fragrance. A small bulbous perennial that brings life and cheerfulness whatever the weather.
- Grows up to 3-4 in. tall (8-10 cm)
- Easily grown in average, medium moisture, neutral or slightly alkaline, well-drained soils in full sun to partial shade. Keep the soil relatively dry in summer in order for the bulbs to set buds for the following year.
- Perfect in containers, rock gardens, under trees and shrubs or at the front of borders. Spectacular when planted in groups (at least 20 bulbs)!
- Deer resistant and drought tolerant.
- To be planted in fall, 4 in. deep (10 cm) and 3 in. apart (7 cm).
- Propagate by seed or from offsets.
- All parts may cause discomfort if ingested. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling.
- Toxic to dogs, toxic to cats, toxic to horses.
Requirements
| Hardiness | 5 – 9 |
|---|---|
| Heat Zones | 5 – 8 |
| Climate Zones | 3A, 3B, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24 |
| Plant Type | Bulbs |
| Plant Family | Iris Reticulata – Dwarf Irises |
| Exposure | Full Sun, Partial Sun |
| Season of Interest | Spring (Early)Winter |
| Height | 3" – 4" (7cm – 10cm) |
| Spread | 3" (7cm) |
| Spacing | 3″ (7cm) |
| Depth | 4" (10cm) |
| Water Needs | Low, Average |
| Maintenance | Low |
| Soil Type | Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand |
| Soil pH | Alkaline, Neutral |
| Soil Drainage | Moist but Well-Drained, Well-Drained |
| Characteristics | Fragrant, Showy |
| Tolerance | Deer, Drought |
| Garden Uses | Beds and Borders, Patio and Containers |
| Garden Styles | City and Courtyard, Gravel and Rock Garden, Informal and Cottage, Traditional Garden |









