Iris reticulata (Dwarf Iris)
Dwarf Iris with grass-like leaves and a violet-blue or purple flower with yellow markings that bursts into bloom in early spring to create an effect reminiscent of butterflies hovering low to the ground.
A native of Turkey and the Caucasian Mountains, Dwarf Iris (Iris reticulata) is a four-inch tall beauty (10 cm) with grass-like leaves and a violet-blue or purple flower with yellow markings that bursts into bloom in late winter to early spring to create an effect reminiscent of butterflies hovering low to the ground. This sight brightens the aspect of late winter days! Breeders have been creating terrific cultivars with flower colors ranging from yellow and chocolate to speckled blues.
Guide Information
| Hardiness | 5 – 8 |
|---|---|
| Heat Zones | 5 – 8 |
| Climate Zones | 3, 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 | 4" – 6" (10cm – 15cm) |
| 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 | Showy |
| Tolerance | Deer, Drought |
| Landscaping Ideas | Beds and Borders, Patio and Containers, Underplanting Roses and Shrubs |
| Garden Styles | City and Courtyard, Gravel and Rock Garden, Informal and Cottage, Traditional Garden |