Iris

Iris germanica

Bearded irises are among the most elegant and dramatic garden flowers, producing large, ruffled blooms in an extraordinary range of colours — from palest ice-blue and cream through rich purples, bronzes, near-black, and vibrant bicolours. They flower in May and June, each stem producing several buds that open in succession. The flowers have an unmistakable form: three upright 'standard' petals and three falls (drooping petals), the latter decorated with a fuzzy 'beard' that gives the group its name. They're easy to grow given the right conditions: full sun and well-drained, neutral to alkaline soil. Crucially, the rhizome must sit on the soil surface, exposed to the sun — burying it is the single most common cause of failure. Plant or divide in July or August, after flowering, placing the rhizome on the surface with roots below. Face the fan of leaves north so the rhizome gets maximum sun. They're extremely drought-tolerant once established and thrive on neglect. Divide every 3–4 years when flowering declines, discarding the old centre and replanting vigorous outer sections. 'Jane Phillips' (pale blue), 'Sable' (near-black), and 'Kent Pride' (brown-gold bicolour) are outstanding UK varieties. Many are beautifully fragrant.

Plan where to grow Iris using our vegetable garden planner.