The Iris means
”
Eye of Heaven.
”
It is a name given to honor the flower because of its great
diversity of colors. The Iris is also named for one of the mythical
goddesses who’s symbol was the rainbow.
The Iris means “Eye of Heaven.” It is a name given to honor the flower because of its great diversity of colors. The Iris is also named for one of the mythical goddesses who’s symbol was the rainbow.
They are a diverse group consisting of 200 to 300 known species. They are available in a variety of different colors and flower forms, cultural needs and blooming periods. Irises grow from bulbs or from rhizomes.
Several different varieties are most commonly planted in our areas, bearded irises, that grow rhizomes, (fleshy root divisions), and Dutch and Spanish irises (grown from bulbs).
The bearded iris is generally one of the first of fall bulbs, corms and rhizomes to be planted. They need good drainage and will grow in a wide variety of soils. Plant in full sun in coastal situations and light shade in hot inland valley. Plant them this month and next for the best results.
Clumps generally become overcrowded after three years, and they must be lifted and divided before replanting. Break rhizomes apart and discard rotted or diseased parts.
Trim leaves and root to approximately six inches before replanting. Let cut ends heal for several hours and up to a day before replanting. This helps protect the plant from disease.
Dutch and Spanish iris were originally parented by a species that came from northern Africa, Spain, Sicily and Portugal. (The Dutch iris name came because of the hybridizing done by the Dutch on these bulbs).
Plant the bulbs in full sun 4 inches deep and 3 to 4 inches apart in October or November. Once the blooms are finished blooming let the foliage die back before removing them from the soil. Most bulb selections will arrive in your local garden center about mid month. Make your selection early for the best choice even though you will not be planting them until the soil cools down (generally late November or early December).
Check with the staff for suggestions on choosing varieties, colors or planting instructions.
– California Association of Nurseries and Garden Centers
