Species bearded iris
white-blue flowers with blue edges, blue veins, and long, green leaves

bearded iris

Iris 'Monty's Sweet Blue'

Bearded Iris (Iris 'Monty's Sweet Blue') features an abundance of spicy sweet blue blooms on 36" stalks. The blooms are delicately ruffled and have known to last up to 3 weeks in the garden. The foliage is a dark green sword shape that stands strongly against the bloom without overshadowing it. This hardy perennial does best in full sun and is suitable for most climates. Its wonderful characteristics make it perfect for borders, beds and containers.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Division,Seed Propagation,Offsets,Cutting

Hardiness Zone:

3 - 10

Flowers:

Dark blue with yellow beard Flowers In Spring

Sun:

Full sun

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

High

Maintenance:

Moderate

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Bearded iris (Iris 'Monty's Sweet Blue') should be watered once a week during the summer and spring seasons. About 2.5 cm (1 inch) of water should be given to this plant species per week. In the winter and fall seasons, water every other week. Provide a deep watering when so, and make sure to saturate the root zone for best results. Water in the morning when possible.

sunlight

Bearded iris (Iris 'Monty's Sweet Blue') grows best in full sun, meaning 6-8 hours of direct, unfiltered sun each day. If possible, it should be given sun in the morning as well as afternoon, to encourage the most vigorous growth and bloom. In areas with hot summers, providing midday shade can help protect the plant from heat stress. The foliage should have shade to prevent burning. Bearded iris will tolerate partial shade in areas with cooler summers, but this likely will reduce flowering potential.

pruning

Bearded iris (Iris 'Monty's Sweet Blue') should be pruned back to the ground at the end of the blooming season. Doing so will keep the plants vibrant and help them re-emerge healthier in the years to come. Pruning can be done in the late fall when all foliage has died back and the plants have gone dormant. Before pruning the plants, get rid of dead foliage, old flowers, and other debris. With sharp, clean pruning shears, cut each stem down to the ground, where it meets the soil. This will help encourage new growth to emerge in the spring. If you need to, divide the clump and replant, so the bearded iris doesn't become overcrowded.

Season

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

Bearded iris typically start flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Starts Flowering

Bearded iris typically start flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Hardiness Map

FAQ

Is the Bearded Iris a popular garden plant?

Yes, the Bearded Iris is a popular garden plant. Its beautiful, showy blooms come in a variety of colors, including purple, yellow, blue, and white. Its robust, rhizomatous root system makes it an easy-to-grow, low-maintenance garden addition. The Iris grows best in soils with good drainage and full sun, and does not require frequent watering. The Bearded Iris is also deer and rabbit resistant and can add a great pop of color to any garden.

Are Bearded Iris plants easy to grow?

Bearded Iris plants are surprisingly easy to grow and are an excellent choice for both novice and experienced gardeners alike. These plants need minimal care when established and once they’re planted they require little more than occasional watering and seasonal pruning. As long as they’re grown in well-drained soil and kept in full sun, they should thrive and bloom every spring. For those looking for a low-maintenance, easy-care flower, bearded irises are an excellent choice.

Can Bearded Iris be grown in a variety of soils?

Yes, Bearded Iris can be grown in a variety of soils. As long as there is adequate drainage, Bearded Iris will grow in any soil type including clay, sand, loam and silt. The soil should also be slightly acidic to neutral, with a pH of 6 to 7. To maximize the health and well-being of the plant, fertilizer and compost should also be mixed into the soil. Additionally, Bearded Iris require several inches of organic mulch for insulation and moisture retention. With the right conditions and care, Bearded Iris will produce beautiful flowers in a variety of colors.

Do Bearded Iris require full sun?

Yes, Bearded Iris do require full sun. Though they can tolerate partial shade, for best results the plants should receive about 6-8 hours of full sun each day. In addition to providing adequate sunlight, soil should be light and well-drained and water should be kept moderately moist. As an added bonus, full sun exposure helps to keep the foliage dry and minimize the potential for diseases.

Is the Bearded Iris fragrance?

The Bearded Iris fragrance is actually a type of flower known as the Iris Germanica. It has a subtle, pleasant smell that is reminiscent of irises. This flower is often used in perfume and soap-making, contributing to lighter, more subtle fragrances. The Bearded Iris can also be found in various arrangements, lending its unique scent and beauty to interior decor.