Iris fulva (Copper Iris)
Perfect for standing water, Iris fulva (Copper Iris) is a striking perennial with unusual, flat-topped, beardless flowers, up to 3 in. across (7 cm), the warm color of copper, terracotta, brick-red, and sometimes yellow. Blooming in late spring to early summer, they rise atop upright stakes reaching 2-3 ft. (60-90 cm). The beauty of the flowers attracts hummingbirds.
Perfect for standing water, Iris fulva (Copper Iris) is a striking perennial with unusual, flat-topped, beardless flowers, up to 3 in. across (7 cm), the warm color of copper, terracotta, brick-red, and sometimes yellow. Blooming in late spring to early summer, they rise atop upright stakes reaching 2-3 ft. (60-90 cm). The beauty of the flowers attracts hummingbirds. This Iris species forms foliage clumps of sword-shaped, arching, bright green leaves which arise from shallowly rooted, branching rhizomes and remain attractive through the growing season.
- Recipient of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society for its outstanding qualities
- Grows up to 2-3 ft. tall (60-90 cm) and 1-2 ft. wide (30-60 cm).
- Performs best in full sun in slightly acidic, moist to wet, humus-rich soils. Part shade is appreciated in hot summer areas. May be grown in up to 6 in. (15 cm) of standing water
- A welcomed addition to beds and borders with consistent moisture, bog gardens, rain gardens, water gardens, and near streams or ponds, where it will provide excellent color contrast.
- Attractive to hummingbirds, but ignored by deer!
- All parts may cause discomfort if ingested. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling.
- Toxic to dogs, toxic to cats, toxic to horses.
- Native to the United States.
Requirements
| Hardiness | 6 – 9 |
|---|---|
| Heat Zones | 6 – 9 |
| Climate Zones | 3, 3A, 3B, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, H1, H2 |
| Plant Type | Aquatic Plants, Perennials |
| Plant Family | Iris – Other |
| Exposure | Full Sun, Partial Sun |
| Season of Interest | Spring (Late)Summer (Early) |
| Height | 2' – 3' (60cm – 90cm) |
| Spread | 1' – 2' (30cm – 60cm) |
| Spacing | 18″ – 24″ (45cm – 60cm) |
| Water Needs | Average, High |
| Maintenance | Low |
| Soil Type | Clay, Loam |
| Soil pH | Acid, Neutral |
| Soil Drainage | Moist but Well-Drained, Moisture Retentive, Poorly Drained |
| Characteristics | Plant of Merit, Showy |
| Native Plants | United States, Midwest, Illinois, Missouri, Southeast, Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Tennessee, Southwest, Texas |
| Tolerance | Clay Soil, Deer, Wet Soil |
| Attracts | Hummingbirds |
| Garden Uses | Beds and Borders, Bog Gardens, Ponds and Streams, Rain Gardens, Water Gardens |
| Garden Styles | Informal and Cottage |