Iris cristata
dwarf crested iris
A rhizomatous perennial to 10cm, forming a mat of fans of bright green leaves, with stemless light violet-blue flowers 3-4cm in width, with a conspicuous white patch and narrow orange crest on each fall
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Size
Ultimate height
Up to 10cmTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0–0.1 metreGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Poorly–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Orange Blue White | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green | |||
| Autumn | ||||
| Winter |
Position
- Full shade
- Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H6Botanical details
- Family
- Iridaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Matforming
- Potentially harmful
- Harmful if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
- Genus
Iris may be rhizomatous or bulbous perennials, with narrow leaves and erect stems bearing flowers with 3 large spreading or pendent fall petals, alternating with 3 erect, often smaller, standard petals, in late winter, spring or early summer
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- SE USA
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in moist, humus-rich soil in full sun or partial shade. Or grow in a container under glass, keep just moist during dormancy
Propagation
Propagate by division of rhizomes from midsummer to early autumn
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Patio and container plants
- City and courtyard gardens
- Coastal
- Cottage and informal garden
- Rock garden
- Flower borders and beds
- Wall side borders
Pruning
Remove any dying foliage in autumn, old flower stems can be cut down after flowering
Pests
Diseases
May be susceptible to aphid-borne viruses, bacterial soft rot and grey moulds; see Iris diseases
Get involved
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