Bearded Irises have thick surface rhizomes, giving rise to fans of sword-shaped, usually broad green leaves, and simple or branched flower stems. Most bear multiple flowers per stem. The flowers have well-developed standards and fall, with a prominent “beard” of white or colored hairs in the center of each fall petal. Avoid high nitrogen fertilizer. Keep mulches away from leaves and rhizomes. Taller cultivars may require staking. Water moderately during growth periods; keep dry while dormant. Tall bearded irises grow to 27 inches and produce flowers, 4 to 8 inches across, in midseason. The cultivar ‘Goldbound’ has double white flowers with yellow veins from summer until the first frost.
| Requirement | |
|---|---|
| Hardiness | 4,5,6,7,8,9 |
| Heat Zones | 4,5,6,7,8,9 |
| Climate Zones | 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 |
| Plant Type | Perennials |
| Plant Family | Iridaceae |
| Exposure | Full Sun, Partial Sun |
| Season of Interest | Spring, Summer, Mid Spring, Late Spring, Early Summer, Mid Summer |
| Height | 2' - 3' |
| Spread | 1' - 2' |
| Water Needs | Average, High |
| Maintenance | Low, Average |
| Soil Type | Acid |
| Characteristics | Showy, Wet Soil Tolerant |
| Garden Styles | Coastal Garden |
| Planting Place | Bog Gardens |