Iris Sibirica

Class

Monocotyledoneae

Division

Angiospermae

Family

Iridaceae

Order

Asparagales

Genus

Iris

Species

Siberian

Description

A rhizomatous, perennial herbaceous plant with slender, linear leaves, from which erect stems emerge, bearing terminal flowers from May to June. These flowers have a distinctive shape, characterised by inner tepals (standard) and outer tepals (fall) of different shades depending on the variety.
It prefers moist soil and sunny positions. Suitable for flowerbeds and borders, including in mixed plantings with other ornamental plants.

Curiosities and special features

The botanical genus Iris comprises around 300 species divided into two groups: bulbous irises and rhizomatous irises, the latter in turn being classified as ‘bearded’ and ‘beardless’ depending on the presence or absence of a particular tuft of hairs known as a ‘beard’ on the tepals.

In addition to I. sibirica, the most common ornamental species include I. ensata, I. pallida, I. unguicularis and numerous hybrids such as Iris germanica, obtained from the cross between I. pallidaand I. variegata.

Origin and distribution

A species native to the region stretching from Central Europe to Mongolia.

Leaf

The leaves, which are basal and erect, have a lanceolate or linear blade with a smooth margin.

Leaf colour

A uniform shade, in perfect colour harmony with the colour of the flowers.

Plant height

The plant’s height ranges from 0.6 to 0.8 m.

Lifespan

A rhizomatous, deciduous perennial plant.

Where to plant

Suitable for growing in flowerbeds, borders, large pots and outdoor planters, where it will provide a highly effective ornamental and colourful accent.

Stem

The stems are herbaceous; this variety has no thorns.

Flower

The flower has a symmetrical corolla and is of medium size. The petals are slightly veined, with a mottled pattern. It forms medium-sized spike-like inflorescences. It flowers from late spring to early summer, with a flowering period of between 30 and 60 days. It attracts bees and butterflies.

Growth

Vigorous Growth Plant.

Plant habit

It develops a bushy habit, characterised by narrow leaves from which the flower stalks emerge.

PH

For the species I. sibirica, the ideal pH of the growing medium ranges from slightly acidic to neutral, with optimal values between 5.5 and 7.0.

Soil preparation

Before transplanting in mid-spring or early autumn, make sure you remove any perennial weeds and large stones, break up any large clods of earth and add organic matter.

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Sun exposure

For healthy growth and abundant flowering, place the plant in full sun or light shade.

Ideal climate and temperature

Suitable for a cool temperate climate. The ideal temperature is between 15 and 25 °C during the growing season.The temperature range within which the plant can survive is between -10 and 30 °C.

Use

Prised for its spectacular blooms and the sinuous shape of its foliage,Iris sibirica is widely used in:
Outdoor ornamental settings Outdoor landscape design Landscaping

Hardiness

A plant of moderate hardiness.

Soil

It requires soil that is cool, moist and rich in organic matter.

Difficulty

Once the plants have become properly established at their new planting site, they are easy to cultivate and require little maintenance.

Growing tips

Some specific growing tips to ensure better growth and full flowering:
Plants will not flower in low light Balanced fertilisation A plant that adapts very well to cold winter climates and can even survive in frozen ground. Prefers a cool climate It can be planted in a flowerbed even in full sun. Requires generous watering but without waterlogging Ensure at least 6 hours of direct sunlight

Combinations with other plants

It is suitable for planting in combination with other ornamental species such as Alchemilla mollis, Aquilegia flabellata and Bergenia cordifolia, following pre-defined design schemes drawn up prior to planting, taking into account the colour tones of the flowers and the heights reached by each plant.

Planting

As with any ornamental bedding plant, planting must be carried out at a suitable density to ensure the plants grow as vigorously as possible, thereby achieving a balanced and visually harmonious final effect; an average planting density of7 plants per square metre is therefore recommended.

Propagation

Vegetative propagation takes place by dividing the rhizomes.

Watering

Look after the plant after repotting by watering it regularly, but taking care to avoid excessive waterlogging. Thereafter, during the spring and summer, keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.

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Fertilising

When growth resumes, apply a balanced, slow-release fertiliser designed specifically for ornamental plants to the soil, taking care not to exceed the recommended dose or frequency.

Read more on the Joyflo blog

Edibility for humans

Non-edible.

Tip

Iris sibirica requires a sunny position in fresh soil rich in organic matter. During spring and summer, water regularly but take care not to allow the soil to become waterlogged. Once flowering has finished, cut back the spent stems.