Species tall bearded reblooming iris

tall bearded reblooming iris

Iris 'Spirit of Memphis'

Iris 'Spirit of Memphis' is a tall bearded, reblooming iris that blooms in April or early May with an additional flowering in the fall. Rich, purple-blue flowers, with white and yellow striations and an accent of gold are held atop a sturdy, green stem. Due to its drought tolerance and cold hardiness it will continue to flourish in most climates, well into the fall. Its hybrid vigor and disease resistance comes from its parentage of two different, unrelated species of iris, while its name comes from the Tennessee city known for its blues music.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Division,Cormlet Propagation,Seed Propagation,Tissue Culture

Hardiness Zone:

3 - 10

Flowers:

Yellow Flowers In Spring

Sun:

Full sun

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

purple

Growth Rate:

High

Maintenance:

Moderate

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

watering

Tall bearded reblooming iris (Iris 'Spirit of Memphis') should be watered deeply once a week during the plant's growing season, which is from March to mid-May in most regions. During this time, the soil around the roots should be kept moist, but not saturated - about 1-2 inches below the surface. During the summer months, when the plant is in its dormant state, water less often to prevent root rot. Once a month should usually suffice. Additionally, during the bloom season, a light misting with a hose can be beneficial.

sunlight

Tall bearded reblooming iris (Iris 'Spirit of Memphis') prefers full sunlight, which means it should get at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day in order to bloom. Morning sun is preferable to afternoon sun for this type of iris, as too much afternoon sun can cause the flowers to fade quickly. Morning sun helps the tall bearded reblooming iris absorb the necessary energy needed for bloom. Additionally, the sunlight will help provide necessary warmth to help the iris bloom consistently.

pruning

Tall bearded reblooming iris plants (Iris 'Spirit of Memphis') benefit from a yearly pruning. Prune the plant in late June or early July, as soon as the blooms have gone. Begin by cutting off any faded, dead or diseased flowers at the base. Cut away any of the foliage below the bloom, leaving an inch or 2 of foliage on the stem. Cut off any foliage that looks damaged by disease or other pests. Then, use pruning shears to shorten the entire stem just above the foliage line. Remove the whole stem. This helps to keep the plant healthy and will encourage more blooms. Finally, prune off any old growth in the center of the plant. This will help keep it from getting overgrown and will make way for new growth and blooms.

Season

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

Iris 'Spirit of Memphis' typically starts flowering in late May or early June.

Starts Flowering

Iris 'Spirit of Memphis' typically starts flowering in late May or early June.

Hardiness Map