Species blue iris
baby-blue-yellow flower with green, long, spear-like leaves

blue iris

Iris spuria

Blue Iris (Iris Spuria) is a beautiful flowering plant species with large, five-petaled blooms in shades of bright blue. It prefers moist soils in unevenly sunny areas, and also thrives in areas prone to drought. Its rich foliage provides not only Year-round color, but also serves as ground cover and habitat for wildlife, such as butterflies and other insects. It makes a great border for walkways and will spread through its creeping root system to make a large clump formation. Its cold hardiness and ability to tolerate and flourish in variable temperatures make it a wonderful choice for temperate locations. It is a must-have addition for sunny and shady gardens, and equally at home brightening up a container design.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Division,Seed Propagation,Cutting,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

5 - 9

Flowers:

Blue, white, purple, wine or brown Flowers

Sun:

Full sun

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Moderate

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Invasive:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Blue Iris should be watered deeply once or twice per week depending on the weather conditions. During times of high temperatures, more frequent watering may be necessary. To water Blue Iris, use a slow and steady stream of water. Allow the moisture to reach the plant’s root system. When soil is looking dry or crunchy to the touch, it’s time to water.

sunlight

Blue iris plants require full sun for best blooms, and will do best with 4 to 6 hours of direct sun per day. They should be planted in an area with at least 6 to 8 hours of sunlight throughout the day during the spring and summer. If possible, give your sun-loving blue iris a place that gets morning sun and afternoon shade. In areas with particularly hot summers, some afternoon shade may be beneficial. Blue iris also tolerate partial shade, where they may bloom slightly less, but still remain healthy and produce some flowers.

pruning

Blue iris (Iris spuria) should be pruned in late summer, usually after the blooming period is over. First, remove any dead or broken stems. Then, cut back the stems to about 4–6 inches from the ground. Finally, thin out the remaining new growth by cutting it back to 2 or 3 buds; this will encourage the plant to send up more new stems. Be sure to use sharp bypass pruners when pruning to minimize damage to the plant. Prune lightly for the best bloom and don't be afraid to remove any faded flowers or older foliage.

Season

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

Iris spuria typically starts flowering in May.

Hardiness Map