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German Bearded Iris Wikimedia Commons
Iridaceae

German Bearded Iris

Iris germanica

Wisdom, faith, and valor.

Family
Iridaceae
Genus
Iris
Native to
Mediterranean region
Bloom season
Late Spring, Early Summer
Type
Perennial rhizome
Height
60-100 cm
Sunlight
Full sun
Soil
Well-draining, neutral to slightly alkaline
Water
Low to moderate
Hardiness
3-9
Lifespan
Perennial

Did you know

  • The 'beard' refers to the fuzzy caterpillar-like strip on the lower petals that guides pollinators.
  • Dried iris root, called orris root, has been used in perfumery for centuries as a fixative.
  • The fleur-de-lis, the iconic French royal symbol, is believed to be based on the iris flower.
  • There are over 30,000 registered cultivars of bearded iris, more than almost any other perennial.
  • Iris rhizomes should be planted with the top exposed to the sun, unlike most other rhizomes.

Color meanings

0

Faith

1

Wisdom

2

Hope

3

Valor

Uses

  • Garden borders
  • Cut flowers
  • Perfumery (orris root)
  • Cottage gardens