- The name Iris means rainbow in Greek.
- Irises thrive in different climates, including Europe, the Middle East, Asia, America, and North Africa and grow well in many places such as deserts, stream banks, grassy slopes, gardens, and meadows.
- Irises grow from fan-shaped, thick rhizomes (tuberous roots) or a typical bulb. Both store food for the plant.
- The Iris flower comes in many colors, including blue, purple, white, yellow, lilac, and brown and grow one to three feet tall.
- Irises multiply rapidly so buy less than you need to fill a bed or planting area.
- Plant bulb Irises in October with other bulbs. Plant or divide and transplant rhizome Irises late July through September.
- Shop for varieties labeled ‘re-bloomers.’ Native species produce spectacular flowers with smaller foliage.
- Plant in a sunny well-drained area. Dig a five-inch deep hole. Build a small mound in the middle and place rhizome on the top letting the roots fall down around the mound. Cover roots and leave the rhizome slightly exposed. Plant 18-24 inches apart.
- Divide every three to five years to reduce bacterial soft rot and to keep them producing flowers. If your Irises are producing fewer flowers, they’re overcrowded. Carefully inspect each rhizome for soft rot and Iris borers.
In and Around the Garden 