Bearded Iris- Iris x germanica

Bearded Iris is a perennial flowering plant valued for its large variety of stunning colors. Most commonly seen blooms are white, blue, lavender, violet, yellow and red. The Bearded Iris gets its name from the soft hairs that grow in the center of the flower. The stalk is green with a couple of pointed green leaves that point upward to show off the beautiful blooms. Each bloom has an upper and downward set of ruffled petals, with a small fuzzy clump of soft hairs amid the petals. Its foliage is riotously colorful by nature, proudly standing out as a focal point in the garden. It has a sweet scent and is lovely when presented as a cut flower. The Bearded Iris is easy to care for and does not require a lot of maintenance. Here are some tips that will encourage this beautiful flower to provide many years of enjoyment. Ideally, this flowering perennial should be planted in late summer with fertilizer. The Bearded Iris is a heavy feeder. Fertilizer should be given when new growth appears in the spring, again after blooms appear and last in the fall for a total of three times a year. Growth rate starts over each year, and the plant grows to about two feet in height. This flowering plant is a perennial whose active growth period is in the spring to summer season. The Bearded Iris needs a lot of sunlight to perform well. It will produce the most blooms when planted in areas that have full sunlight throughout the day. Sunlight during part of the day will allow for the production of a smaller amount of blooms. Full shade is not recommended. Well-drained soil conditions are the key to maintaining good health. Its water needs are mild to moderate in nature. This Iris should not be rooted in an area with perpetually wet soil as it will cause the roots to rot and die. The beauty of the Bearded Iris adds an enviable elegance to gardens and landscaping. Practical uses include being included to make perfume and aromatherapy. Gardeners who battle nature find this plant particularly useful as it is resistant to deer and rabbits.