Iris cristata
Blooming Time
Exposure
A true dwarf, crested iris is one of the most charming native ground covers. Although its height seldom exceeds 7-inches, it spreads indefinitely, and in time forms lush dense mats. Colored medium green, its sword shaped foliage is the perfect backdrop to a multitude of springtime flowers. The flowers, colored soft lilac, with white or yellow crests on the petals, are pleasantly fragrant and rather spectacular. Crested iris is excellent as a small scale general cover.
Details
Hardiness Zone:
Blossom Color:
Violet to Purple
Growth Habit:
Slow Spreading
Max Height:
6"
Texture:
Recommended Spacing:
We sell this plant in these containers:
Special Characteristics
Features
Soft green sword shaped leaves combine nicely with fragrant soft lilac petaled, yellow or white crested, springborne flowers.
Landscape Value
Small to moderate scale ground cover, accent, edging, companion. Very low maintenance plant for shady settings.
Care
Watering:
Crested Iris requires a fair amount of supplemental watering and often requires watering on a regular basis during the growing season.
Fertilizing:
Crested Iris is a moderate feeder, benefiting from a couple of annual applications of slow release fertilizer. A spring application of a 3-1-2 ratio (such as a 15-5-10) can be applied at a rate of about 10 pounds per 1000 square feet, and during early fall, an application of a 2-1-2 ratio (such as a 10-5-10) can be applied to encourage root development and cold hardiness.
Pruning:
Crested Iris is a deciduous plant (nonevergreen) and does not require pruning. It is perfectly acceptable to allow the dropped leaves to decompose and nourish the soil.