Purple Bearded Iris

Iris germanica

Characteristics

Culture

Purple Bearded Iris is best grown in humusy, medium moisture, well-drained soils in full sun. Best flowering and disease resistance occur in full sun. Plants will tolerate light shade. Good soil drainage is essential to combat potential soft rot problems. Avoid use of mulch for the same reason. Heavy clay soils must be amended prior to planting or raised plantings should be considered. Plant rhizomes shallowly (cover with 1/2” soil) and 12-24” apart in mid to late summer.  Fertilize lightly in early spring. Avoid overhead watering. Deadhead individual spent flowers and remove flowering stems to the ground after bloom. Divide Purple Bearded Iris plants immediately after flowering when overcrowding occurs (every 3-4 years).

Noteworthy Characteristics

Iris germanica, commonly called common flag or German iris, is the presumed father of most modern bearded iris cultivars. Origin is uncertain, but species plants are probably native to southern Europe and the Mediterranean area. This iris has become established over time throughout the world, with naturalization having occurred in many parts of Europe and the U.S. Thousands of bearded iris cultivars have been introduced into commerce over time.  In general terms, plants grow 2-3′ tall with sword-shaped linear leaves and large usually fragrant blooms on stalks that branch below their mid points. Each flower has six perianth segments: three falls are purple with brown veins, white bases and yellow beards and three standards are lilac. Each stalk grows to 3′ tall and typically produces up to 6 flowers in spring. Sword shaped leaves are mostly basal, in two ranks, and about 2′ long. 

Problems

The major insect iris is borer. Major disease problems are bacterial soft rot, crown rot fungus, and fungal leaf spot. Watch for mottling of leaves and flowers which may indicate the presence of mosaic virus. 

Garden Uses

Sunny beds and borders. Will naturalize into large clumps.