Species dwarf crested iris
Light-Violet flower with buds,  yellow-white center, green leaves green petiole and stems.

dwarf crested iris

Iris cristata 'Powder Blue Giant'

The Dwarf Crested Iris, or Iris cristata 'Powder Blue Giant', is a gorgeous addition to any garden. When in bloom, the petite purple flowers actively add beauty and color to a landscape. Growing best in partial shade with a moist, well-draining soil, this perennial is hardy to zone three and can reach 10-16 inches in height, with 18-24 inch spread. This variety of the Crested Iris is known for its stunningly bright blue blossoms, accompanied by bright yellow and white markings. Not only aesthetically pleasing, this species is also deer and rabbit resistant, making it a pest-free choice for gardens.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Division,Seed Propagation,Cutting,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

3 - 9

Flowers:

Pale blue with gold-crested falls Flowers

Sun:

Full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green,yellow,violet

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Moderate

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Watering Dwarf Crested Iris (Iris cristata 'Powder Blue Giant') should take place twice per week. Water thoroughly, allowing the soil to become completely saturated in the pot or flower bed. After watering, check the soil 2 to 3 inches below the soil surface for moisture. If it is still damp, it does not need to be watered. If the soil surface is dry, provide more water. In the winter, water only every 2 to 3 weeks, because the plant goes dormant and does not need much water. Do not allow the soil to dry out completely, and water deeply every 2 to 3 weeks.

sunlight

The dwarf crested iris (Iris cristata 'Powder Blue Giant') thrives best in partial sun, meaning that this plant species needs about 4-6 hours of sunlight each day. Planting the iris in a location that is exposed to too much sunlight can lead to the plant drying out and wilting. Conversely, a location that is too shaded can lead to the iris growing poorly and becoming weak. To ensure that your dwarf crested iris has enough light, it is best to provide it with morning sun and afternoon shade.

pruning

Dwarf crested iris (Iris cristata 'Powder Blue Giant') are typically best pruned in late winter or early spring, once they have fully emerged from dormancy and are again actively growing. Prune at this stage to remove any damaged, dead or overgrown leaves and stems and to shape and maintain a desired form. Pruning should only be as much as necessary to achieve desired results, and no more. If needed, a light pruning can also be done during the growing season.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

The dwarf crested iris typically starts flowering in April.

Hardiness Map