All about iris flowers. Irises: planting and care, varieties, cultivation. To whom and when to give irises

25.02.2022

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Entering the village garden on a warm June day, you will surely see an overgrown curtain of elegant cockerels. Simple and unpretentious, but no less charming. The folk flower also has a more euphonious name - iris, there is a rich pedigree and its own elite. The magnificent varieties of irises with photos and names described in this article will appeal to amateur flower growers and professional garden designers.

Iris - the personification of grace and graceRainbow flower

The rhizomatous perennial belongs to the Kasatikovye family and has almost 800 species, distributed almost all over the planet. It is difficult to find a person who does not know what an iris looks like - his flower is so unusual that once you see it, you will not forget it. But if there are, we offer a description of the plant.

Its rhizome is creeping, divided into annual links. A fan of flat xiphoid leaves sprouts from each segment in spring. A thick strong peduncle emerges from this bunch, on which from 1 to 6 single flowers bloom.

The flower itself is large - 7.5–11 cm high, up to 18 cm in diameter, consists of 6 petals (lobes) - three internal and three external. The inner petals are usually raised up and form a "crown" or "glass". The outer shares, they are also called fouls, diverge to the sides horizontally or lowered down.

Both the variegated colors of the petals and the palette of numerous varieties of irises confirm the name of the flower, which is translated from Greek as "rainbow". There are a variety of tones and combinations:

plain (self) - white, pastel, saturated, almost black;
combinations with the traditional combination of colors - white with blue, yellow with brown;
contrasting combinations of tones and shades, for example, pink with lavender;
variegated (speckled, bordered).

There is no unified international classification of the plant - in our country only rhizomatous perennials are called irises, in Europe bulbous relatives of the flower are also included in the same genus. And the domestic garden classification for a simple amateur gardener does not add clarity. If you do not go into botanical details, the following types of irises are most often grown in gardens and parks:

bearded (the most numerous, widespread and demanded group);
Siberian;
Japanese;
Spuria irises;
bulbous hybrids (Dutch or English).

Before purchasing collection irises, carefully read the assortment and resistance of the specimen you like to the climatic conditions of your region. Many of the hybrids bred in the USA, Japan, Holland, Australia are thermophilic and cannot withstand the frosts of the middle zone, not to mention Siberia or the Urals.

By choosing varieties with different flowering periods, you will enjoy a rainbow palette from mid-May to July. Bearded irises

More than 500 varieties and interspecific hybrids - bearded iris can boast of such a large family.

A powerful, resilient and unpretentious perennial according to the height of the bush is divided into 3 groups:

dwarf varieties (21–40 cm);
medium height (41–70 cm);
tall (from 71 cm).

In the tall group, forms are bred that grow up to 110-120 cm with powerful peduncles, which simultaneously bear 5-12 flowers. The higher the plant, the larger and more massive they are, with dense, corrugated petals, a “lace” edge.

A distinctive feature, due to which the iris received its specific name, is the so-called beard, clearly visible in the photo below. This is a shaggy strip of dense short hairs located at the base of the central vein of the outer fouls. In color, it can either match the main background or contrast with it.

A coral-colored beard is clearly visible at the base of the outer petals.

View advantages

It is no coincidence that bearded irises are so popular. In addition to the magnificent appearance and the most extensive palette of colors and shades, they have a lot of other advantages.

The plant grows rapidly and intensively.
Blooms profusely and for a long time.
A large number of frost-resistant varieties have been developed that do not need to be covered for the winter.
The flower is hardy, rarely gets sick, resistant to pests.

Bearded irises are good in the flower bed and in the cut. Dwarf varieties are appropriate in borders and on alpine slides, solo and in composition with other perennials. Tall specimens are indispensable for tapeworms, they look great in company with lilies and peonies.

Overview of popular varieties

We offer a small selection of varieties of bearded irises with photos and names. This is only a small part of the assortment offered by domestic and foreign breeders, for which we chose spectacular specimens that have proven themselves in our conditions.

Supreme Sultan is a two-color hybrid of American selection, a powerful plant with a height of more than a meter. The inner petals (standards) are of a rich yellow-ocher color, collected in a crown, the falls are cherry-burgundy with a yellow beard, lowered low. The edge of the petals is corrugated. The flowering period is May-June.
In the photo - the American variety Supreme Sultan
Thornbird is a popular variety of green-flowered "bearded men", tall (over 80 cm) with a strong peduncle and a luxurious fan of leaves. The flower is large (ø 13–14 cm), orchid-shaped, with creamy standards and greenish-mustard falls, on which a yellow beard with a violet-brown horn stands out. Blooms in June-July, luxuriantly and abundantly. Suitable for growing in the middle lane.
Green-flowered cultivar Thornbird
Sultan Palace refers to the spectacular monochromatic hybrids of the Dutch selection. The height of the bush is about a meter, the flower is large with a diameter of up to 15 cm. The upper and lower petals are dense, velvety, rich reddish-brown in color with burgundy veins along the field and a slightly corrugated edge, the beard is yellow. The flower smells good. The plant belongs to a highly winter-hardy group, will delight with long and lush flowering.
Red - one of the most elegant irises
Vibrant is a variety of irises for those who love yellow flowers, so magnificent both in the flower bed and in the photo. The color is monophonic, dense, golden yellow, the petals are strongly corrugated along the edge, yellow-orange beards are barely visible at the base of the falls. The flower has a light refined aroma. The plant itself is of excellent quality, tall (from 85 cm), large-flowered, does not degenerate during the growing season. Blooms early.
A flower for lovers of sunny irises
Vizir is a magnificent tall variety with large monochromatic flowers. A rich palette of petals plays with raspberry-violet, cranberry, pomegranate hues. The petals are corrugated with "bubbles" along the edge. An orange beard stands out on bright falls.
In the photo - a variety of irises Vizir
Champagne Waltz is a tall two-color hybrid of the American originator. The standards are a delicate peach hue with apricot venation, the falls are white with an apricot-yellow border, lowered low. The petals are dense, corrugated, with a velvet texture. The beard is red-orange.
Border on the edge of fouls - a new trend in the selection of irises, Champagne Waltz variety
Immorality is an amazing white iris, shown in the photo below. Standards, fouls, beard - everything in this flower is pure snow-white, the petals are slightly wavy, with a velvet texture. The height in the peduncle is 75–85 cm. The uniqueness of the variety is in remontance. The first time blooms in May, again, under favorable weather conditions - in September. Differs in good frost resistance.
Re-blooming iris variety Immorality
Toronto is a tall mid-early hybrid of the American originator. The flowers are large (ø 13–16 cm), two-colored, soaring. The inner petals are a warm pinkish-peach color with a wavy edge, the falls are a contrasting maroon tone, turning along the edge into a burgundy-pink "lace" frill. A red-orange beard stands out clearly on a dark foul. Very colorful, elegant flower!
In the photo - Toronto iris
Super Model is a tall solid handsome man with large lavender flowers. The shape of the flower is orchid with soaring falls, the petals are corrugated, with a fringed edge, decorated with an orange beard with white tips. Iris of this variety smells good. Blooms in July, winter-hardy.
Elegant variety - a real Supermodel
Super Hero is a real superhero with a hat of large heavy flowers on a strong high peduncle. The crown is formed by white standards with a golden border, the falls are horizontally located, with an ocher area in the center, turning into maroon, almost black edges. A golden yellow beard stands out as a bright spot on the petal.
Bicolor variety Superhero

Siberian irises

Our compatriot Siberian iris in the photo looks like a bearded relative, but has a number of differences in structure, agricultural technology and description of the flower.

The shape of the flower is similar, but it is somewhat smaller, without a beard, the petals are narrower and elongated. Although in fairness it must be said that some modern varieties in terms of flower size can compete with beard irises.
The plant grows into large bushes and kicks out just a huge number of flower stalks.
The foliage of this species is brighter and more elegant, it serves as a decoration of the garden even after flowering.
The view is extremely hardy, cold-resistant, more reliable in adverse weather conditions.
Unlike the bearded iris, this flower can grow and bloom in shade.

Unfortunately, Siberian irises do not smell. But this does not detract from the decorative possibilities of the flower and the interest in it from breeders.

Assortment of Siberian irises

Dozens of varieties and hybrids of Siberian irises have been bred in the world for every taste, some of them we have collected in this collection with photos and names.

Japanese irises

Sword-shaped irises growing in Japan and in our Far East are called Japanese. This is not a specific, but rather a collective term. For a long time they were considered unsuitable for cultivation in the northern regions, they were grown in Primorye, the Caucasus, the Black Sea coast. Breeders are trying to actively promote the culture to the north, more or less frost-resistant varieties have appeared, but in general, the “Japanese” in the middle lane do not have enough heat and light.

The flower of the Japanese iris is very interesting - large (ø up to 25 cm), similar to a saucer. All 6 lobes are bent horizontally, only branches of pistils (styles) with an openwork scallop at the end are raised up. In addition to monochromatic and two-color varieties, speckled, bordered, with contrastingly colored veins are common. Let's take an example of a few of them.

Bulb relatives of irises

Bulbous xifiums are flowers very similar to irises. In the English, Dutch tradition they are called bulbous irises.

The main difference is the presence of bulbs instead of rhizomes. Their leaves are narrower, grooved, more like a daylily, peduncles are thin and tall. The flowers are identical in structure to cockerels - they consist of 6 lobes, some species have a nail bent up on the falls, as can be seen in the photo below.

This is what bulbous iris looks like

In the southern regions, this flower is cultivated quite successfully, but in the north it does not take root, and even if it blooms in some years, then it withers and disappears.

Another flower, reminiscent of either irises or daylilies, is the now fashionable alstroemeria.

In the photo - alstroemeria

This is a South American rhizomatous perennial that grows up to 1 m. The flowers are six-petalled, variegated, multicolored. The plant is thermophilic, therefore it can be grown in the garden only in the south, in the middle lane - only in closed ground.

Video about the types and popular varieties of irises:

Moscow, Russia, online since 01/11/2017

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Irises have long gained popularity due to their unusual appearance and unpretentiousness. They practically do not require care, even an inexperienced gardener can cope with growing. Many varieties of this plant have been bred. In order not to get confused in such a variety, it is necessary to study in advance irises, varieties with photos and names. This will help create a spectacular garden to the envy of all neighbors.

Varieties of irises

Iris is a perennial unpretentious plant, which is distinguished by an unusual shape and color of flowers. It is suitable for growing in open areas flooded with sunlight. A distinctive feature of the flowers is their charming delicate aroma. Therefore, they are often used in the perfume industry.

Wild-growing irises today can be found in meadows, in the steppe or on sheer cliffs. In greenhouse conditions, about five hundred different varieties have been bred that are suitable for growing in household plots. They can be divided into several large groups:

bearded;
dwarf;
bulbous;
Siberian;
marsh;
Japanese.

In European countries, it is customary to divide these plants into 10 - 15 categories. Separately, border, Californian and some other species are distinguished. To decide which of them will take root better on your site, carefully study the irises, their varieties with photos and names.

bearded irises

Iris bearded is considered one of the most common varieties of plants. Its distinctive feature is the presence of fine hairs on the lower petals. They have a more saturated color compared to the general tone of the flower. Among the most spectacular varieties are:

This is just a small part of the variety on the market today. When choosing, pay attention to the fact that the flowers are in harmony with neighboring specimens and fit into the overall design of the site.

The height of such varieties can reach 80 cm, so you should not plant them in close proximity to photophilous low-growing plants.

dwarf irises

Iris dwarf differs from its counterparts in its small stature. The height of the peduncles does not exceed 40 cm. For most varieties, this parameter is 20 cm at all. They will be ideal for decorating small compact flower beds. Among the most popular varieties are:

Dwarf irises do well in light, permeable soils. If the soil in your garden is heavy, then add sand to it before planting.

bulbous irises

Everyone is used to the fact that irises are rhizomatous plants. Modern specialists have managed to breed several varieties growing from bulbs. They are distinguished by unusually early flowering. They can be compared to snowdrops. As soon as the snow melts, the first flowers appear. There are three main types:

Bulbous irises look good in a flower bed with crocuses, muscari, galanthus and so on. They will be ideal for alpine slides.

Such varieties can be grown in pots and large planters. They will be an excellent decoration of verandas and arbors.

Siberian irises

Photos of Siberian irises are impressive. They are distinguished by the extraordinary beauty of the flowers. The value of this species is also in the fact that the foliage of the plant has a rich green color throughout the season. The most spectacular varieties are:

Such varieties look spectacular along the banks of improvised reservoirs, in large rockeries. Groups of such flowers can decorate the lawn, which will give the landscape an unusual look.

swamp irises

Iris marsh or iris grows everywhere in our country. The leaves of this species are sword-shaped. Their length can reach two meters. This species does well in partial shade. Therefore, such flowers can be planted along fences or near trees with a not too dense crown. Among the most popular varieties are:

Having studied these varieties of irises with photos and names, we can conclude that they are ideal for group plantings. With the help of different types of irises, you can create spectacular flower beds.

Japanese irises

Japanese iris has orchid-shaped flowers. Their size can vary from 15 to 25 cm. In Japan, such plants are planted so that they can be admired from a height. From this angle, they look the most impressive. The plants are large, so when planting between them, it is necessary to maintain a distance of at least 30 cm. The most popular varieties:

After studying the photo of the varieties of irises, you can choose the right planting material that is suitable for your type of soil. If you choose specimens with different flowering periods, you can admire the beauty of flowers all summer long.

Irises bloom in the garden - video

When choosing bearded irises for growing on your site, first of all, decide on the size. The fact is that these flowers are different in height: there are bearded irises that grow up to 70 cm, and there are those that rise no higher than 5 cm above the ground. The best varieties of bearded irises must meet certain requirements, about which you find out by reading this article.

Medium-sized, tall and miniature bearded irises

Bearded irises - the most extensive group of irises, consisting of several classes.

Tall Bearded Irises (TV)- powerful plants with a height of 71 cm with a branched peduncle, many buds and large flowers, sometimes up to 20 cm in diameter. In the Moscow region, they bloom from mid-June to early July.

Medium-sized bearded irises (MB) - from 41 to 70 cm high, are divided in turn into three groups:

border irises (BB) with a flowering period similar to tall bearded, but with a proportionally smaller flower;
intermedia irises (IB) with a flower size of 10-13 cm and a flowering period in the Moscow region from the beginning of June; not necessarily strongly branched, but forming a profusely flowering shrub;
table, or miniature high bearded irises (MTV) - with a high thin branched peduncle and relatively small (not wider than 8 cm) flowers, used mostly for a bouquet and a table, from where their name came from.

Standard Bearded Dwarfs (SDB)- 21-40 cm high, bloom in the Moscow region from the end of May.

Miniature bearded dwarfs (MDB)- the smallest, the height of such bearded irises is 5-20 cm. These flowers bloom very early (in the Moscow region from the first half of May).

Requirements for tall bearded irises

The modern tall bearded iris is a striking flower! Anyone who sees him is fascinated by his beauty and extremely surprised when he learns that growing luxurious irises is no more difficult than any other garden flowers or even vegetables in the garden. Perhaps, so many erroneous opinions have not developed about any culture that many, even very sophisticated gardeners, are wary of it, usually opposing new varieties to old ones. And it’s completely in vain: among modern varieties there are plenty of those that can reliably and regularly bloom in the middle lane and even have some advantage in resistance to the hardships of our harsh climate compared to historical varieties. Therefore, undoubtedly, it is worth striving to acquire new varieties. But the main advantage of the new varieties is that they are immeasurably more beautiful than the old ones.

The flower breeding progress of tall bearded irises is astonishing. The main attention is paid to the flower, because even just one flower - whether it grows in the garden or stands in a vase - is able to conquer the gardener's imagination and fall in love with him forever. Until now, there are more and more new color combinations, exquisite color patterns, instantly gaining immense popularity. But, despite all the achievements in expanding the color range of irises, the main focus is on the quality of the flower.

The quality of a flower is understood as:

wide, sometimes closing at the bases halyards and closed standards, making the flower collected, rounded and expressive;
the density of the texture of the petals, providing resistance to precipitation and a longer flower life;
grace and uniformity of corrugation of shares;
width, density and expressiveness of the beards.

An example of excellent flower quality is Keith Keppel's 'Paris Fashion'. Giant flowers also require peduncles proportional to their size - tall, strong, resistant to gusts of wind. So that the opening flowers do not interfere with each other, they must be “spaced” on sufficiently long branches, and in order to ensure a long flowering period, there must be a large number of buds in the inflorescence.

Of particular attraction are the so-called exhibition varieties, which have 3-5 simultaneously opened flowers on the peduncle.

Considerable attention is also paid to the garden attractiveness of the iris - the health of the foliage, the rapid growth of the bush and the representativeness of its flowering, when the number of peduncles on the bush is considered optimal, approximately equal to half the number of leaf fans.

Of particular interest are such varieties, the bushes of which do not throw out flower stalks at the same time, but over a certain period of time, providing exceptionally long flowering. Remontant varieties have long flowering.

With the right selection of varieties, the flowering of tall bearded irises stretches for 50 days.

The main requirement for iris varieties for growing in the northern regions is growth energy, which allows you to compensate for many other plant shortcomings. The next most important quality is frost resistance. The ability to withstand low temperatures in winter is related to the rhythm of plant development. Irises, whose growth ends by the end of summer and the leaves die off, winter much better and, therefore, their flower buds are not damaged in severe winters.

Tall bearded irises are a very thermophilic culture. So, in the Moscow region and to the north, only 20% of varieties from their total number successfully grow. Therefore, my advice to amateur gardeners is to be primarily interested in its frost resistance when buying.

Resistance to fungal and bacterial diseases is another important quality. Resistance to bacteriosis and heterosporiosis provides healthy foliage, decorative plantings and flowering regularity.

The standard planting unit for bearded irises is usually a one-year growth of the iris rhizome. In the middle lane, they reach an acceptable size by the beginning of August. This is the reason for the recommended planting time - the first half of August, however, good results can be obtained when planting before the beginning of September.

What rhizomes are better to take for planting: large or small, annual (short) or biennial (long)? The answer to this question depends on your goals: if by all means you want to see an iris flower the next year after planting, choose a large rhizome with a wide fan of 6-8 leaves. If flowering next year is not important for you, but the reliability of overwintering and plant survival are paramount, choose a medium-sized one-two-year-old rhizome with a diameter of 2-2.5 cm, with 3-4 leaves.

Agricultural technology for growing bearded irises: planting and care

Agrotechnics for growing bearded irises depends on the purpose of their cultivation, so it is impossible to give any universal scheme. Some grow irises, planting and digging up planting material annually, usually for sale. Others plant irises to decorate the garden in a border, mixborder, rockery or on a rocky hill, where it is advisable not to touch them for several years.

The most important factors for successful cultivation are light and drainage. Do not forget also that irises are heat-loving plants. The more sun the irises get in the garden, the better they bloom. A slight shade in the morning or evening is certainly acceptable, but only some varieties of irises, such as the intermedia ‘In a Flash’, will withstand a more serious shade. The southern slopes are preferable to the northern ones, and a place near the southern wall of the building will also be good. It is good if the landing site is cleared from the prevailing cold winds.

With excessive soil moisture, the respiration of the roots is disturbed, and they partially die off, which leads to a slowdown in plant development.

In similar conditions, bacterial rot also develops on the rhizomes of irises.

If the soil is sufficiently drained, irises can be planted on a flat surface, if the soil is heavy, clayey, then it is better to plant them on a hill or on ridges. Ridges are also more convenient in terms of winter shelter.

High soil fertility is the key to successful cultivation and productivity of tall bearded irises in central Russia.

Bearded irises do best in light, sandy soils. Loams are also acceptable, however the addition of sand and organic materials (peat, composted sawdust, humus) greatly improves the structure and permeability of the soil, leading to excellent results. It is only necessary to take into account that in order to improve the soil to a depth of 20 cm, it will be necessary to add about 100 liters of sand per 1 m2 of soil.

The optimal level of reaction of the soil environment (pH) is 6.8.

If you intend to grow irises on the ridges, then their preparation consists of the following operations:

freeing the site from the roots of perennial weeds;
bringing compost or other available organic material to the site;
leveling organics over the site with the simultaneous introduction of wood ash or dolomite flour and mixing them with the soil with a pitchfork or shovel.
application of mineral fertilizers under the rake: potassium sulfate and superphosphate, as well as ground or colloidal sulfur in the amount of 5-7 g / m2;
shaping the ridge profile and compacting the soil to avoid further subsidence and bulging of newly planted plants. The height of the bed profile after compaction is approximately 7-8 cm;
delivery of coarse-grained river or washed quarry sand to the ridges in such an amount as to form a layer of about 5-7 cm, and its leveling;
the ridge is ready for planting. In order to preserve the structure of the ridge, it is convenient to plant bearded irises as follows: slightly push the sand, sticking a shovel bayonet into it, place the roots of the iris division into the gap formed, compact the soil around the roots and water the substrate, move it to the planted division of the iris so that it is in the layer sand.

On the ridge, delenki are planted in such a way that the cut part of the rhizome is directed to the edge of the ridge, and the fan of leaves is directed to the middle. In this case, the growing roots will be directed towards the center of the ridge, which will make it easier to water the plants in the groove in the center of the ridge in the future.

Irises can be transplanted at any time during the growing season. However, replanting in the spring may result in poor flowering in the current year. In the middle lane, optimal results are obtained when planting and transplanting irises in August: the plants have enough time to take root and gain sufficient mass to fully bloom next year. Irises planted later, that is, in autumn, usually remain healthy, but do not have time to take root before the onset of cold weather. This can lead to rhizomes sticking out of the ground when the soil freezes. To avoid bulging of the rhizome, additional mulching for the winter is required, or simply fixing the rhizome with a suitable improvised object.

A common mistake when planting and caring for bearded irises is to overburden the rhizome. Irises are recommended to be planted so that the back of the rhizome is at the surface of the soil. For the winter, it is better to sprinkle the open rhizome with soil, and in the spring it needs to be raked.

When caring for bearded irises, watering is required in the first weeks after planting the irises for successful rooting. For abundant flowering, adult specimens of bearded irises need watering only with a lack of precipitation, especially in May, when hot, dry weather is often, sometimes in June-July. However, in August, and even more so in September-October, adult bushes no longer need watering. At this time, the plant is preparing for winter, and its growth should not be stimulated.

Irises should be fed both in early spring and 3-4 weeks after flowering. Fertilizing with soluble fertilizers gives a quick effect: in spring - complex with microelements, in July-August - with potassium phosphate.

For the successful cultivation of bearded irises, phosphorus is the most important of the main nutrients, therefore it is advisable to fill the soil with superphosphate (100 g / m2) or bone meal (200-300 g / m2) when preparing the site for irises. For spring-summer top dressing, you can use a complex fertilizer with a low nitrogen content, for example, NPK=6:10:10. The autumn mixture has a ratio of NPK = 0:13:18, it also contains magnesium and elemental sulfur, the latter is 5%. Spring fertilizer mix has the formula NPK=8:37:11.

The best organic fertilizer for iris culture is well-rotted compost.

Bearded irises grow successfully in one place for 4-5 years. The specific terms for updating the bush depend both on the variety and on the agricultural technology used. Some time after planting, the iris bush thickens, which eventually leads to the cessation of flowering. How quickly thickening occurs depends on the multiplication factor of the variety. Some varieties are characterized by vigorous growth, and at the same time are not too demanding on external conditions.

With the age of the bush, it is desirable to increase the number of dressings. If these measures do not bring the desired effect, the entire bush must be dug up, the soil renewed by adding ripe compost and phosphorus-potassium fertilizers, and planting 3-4 of the strongest shoots, shortening the leaves by about 2/3.

Many modern varieties do not need shelter for the winter. If the variety is chosen for the beauty of the flower, but not winter-hardy enough, additional efforts will be required in preparation for winter. The main problems for irises in winter in the middle lane arise when an ice crust forms on the frozen ground without snow, preventing the plants from breathing.

It is convenient to cover irises with spruce branches or oak leaves, which tend not to cake. To prevent such a frame from getting wet, it must be covered with a non-woven covering material or a film - irises will not soak under them in winter.

Irises hibernate in the best way under dry-air shelter with preliminary drying of the ridge, for which one month is usually enough. The easiest way to protect against rain is with a dense reinforced film laid on arcs or directly on the foliage of irises. At the same time, the ends of the shelter should be open for free air circulation, and they should be closed for the winter. Estimated time for the construction of the shelter - the end of October - the beginning of November.

In the spring, the film is removed from the shelter as early as possible, immediately after the snow melts, and other material is removed as needed.

Varietal irises are propagated vegetatively, that is, by dividing the rhizomes. For accelerated reproduction, it is necessary to remove the flower bud in the fall, located at the base of the leaf fan. After that, the lateral buds start to grow in the plant, which in the spring form new powerful shoots. To separate them, you do not need to dig out the rhizome. On a dry sunny day, you need to rake the ground, cut off dried and yellowing leaves, and cut off the remaining green leaves to the rhizome. The cut must be disinfected and left to dry in the sun. After the wound heals after a few days, the rhizome must be mulched with soil so that roots can form in the awakening buds. The division of the rhizome into bud cuttings, often recommended for propagation of irises, is a much less effective method, since in this case the plant is severely injured and, as a result, flowering occurs much later.

For reproduction, dormant buds on 2-3-year-old rhizomes can also be successfully used. To do this, pieces of rhizomes are cut out from the middle of the bush and simply transplanted to a new place.

New varieties of tall bearded irises for the middle lane

When describing, the following data are given: the name of the bearded iris variety, originator, year of registration, flower characteristics, flowering period.

Sundress

Pirogov 2000

Golden-smoky top with a lilac touch. On the white field of the bottom there are purple dots and strokes, a golden-smoky border. Bright yellow pistil ridges glowing in the depths of the flower. Exceptionally vigorous growth and regular abundant and long flowering. Early.

Queen

Sholupov 2003

Intense purple-violet, with a velvety texture of the lobes and powerful corrugation. Exhibition peduncle easily holds several simultaneously opened flowers. Average flowering period.

Cranberry Sauce

Black 2002

Cranberry South

Silky-shiny flower with purple-crimson overflow. Yellow beards emphasize the magnificent depth of color. Average flowering period.

Darcy's Choice

Schreiner 2007

Aarsis Choice flower of original color with white beards on crimson halyards. Wonderful branched peduncle. Average flowering period.

Dawn To Dusk

Schreiner 2008

Aown Too Dusk

A bicolor pink-purple flower that develops a unique gray hue in acidic soils: unexpected and attractive. Middle late.

Edgefield Glow

Schreiner 2011

Edgefield Glow

Exceptional brightness orange flower with dark tangerine beards. This new variety of bearded iris has an incomparable color and excellent vigor not found in other orange varieties. Mid-early.

Never Been Kissed

Blyth 2008

Never Win

Kissed Fashionable reverse: blue top and pure white bottom. Luxurious flower of delicate coloring. A distinctive feature is the best corrugation to date. Mid-early.

Palace Symphony

Blyth 2007

Palace Symphonies

Purple-wine flower with almost black beards and exceptional ruffles. A variety that combines the best features of American and Australian selection. Average flowering period.

Royal Birth

Royal 2003

Royal Burf

Creamy white with golden halyards. Dense flower texture. Abundant flowering and steady growth. Medium early flowering period.

Undivided Attention

Ernst 2004

Undivided Attention

Intense pink, warm salmon color, thicker in the center of the flower. Bright coral beards. Abundantly flowering variety. Middle late.

Warranty

T. Johnson 2004

Warranty

A huge floating purple-black flower with a velvety texture on a tall peduncle. Mid-late flowering period.

The classification of irises still causes a lot of inconsistencies, because very often plant varieties come from interspecific and inter-varietal crossing. Therefore, amateur gardeners have created their own, conditional division into species according to common characteristics.

The most common in culture is a group of bearded irises, the main difference of which is the presence of a beard of hairs outside the perianth. Annual growths are clearly expressed on the rhizome of the plant. Bearded irises include hybrids of species such as Germanic iris, variegated iris, pale iris, and others. Therefore, the most correct would be the name of the varieties of bearded irises varieties iris hybrid.

A variety of colors (from pale cream and white to dark blue) and plant height allows you to choose a variety for any. Tall bearded irises grow above 0.7 m, medium-sized ones - from 0.41 m to 0.7 m, undersized (dwarf) up to 0.4 m.

Americans are leaders in the selection of irises. The Russian Iris Society (ROI) has also developed its own classification, different from the American one. The only group that does not cause controversy in both countries is the standard tall bearded irises, the most common and well-known class throughout the world.

bearded irises

This group is divided into several subgroups that differ in the height of the peduncle, flower size and flowering time:

High- characterized by large chic flowers and a long (from 0.7 to 1.20 m) peduncle.
curbs- peduncle from 0.41 to 0.7 m.
miniature tall- the dimensions are the same as those of the previous group, but differ in small flowers and a thinner stem.
Sideshow- differ in flowering time, reach a height of 0.41 to 0.7 m.
Standard dwarf- the size of the peduncle varies from 0.21 m to 0.4 m.
Miniature pygmy- bloom very early and have the smallest flowers. The height of the peduncle is up to 0.2 m.

All presented plants have different flowering periods: from very early to late. Properly choosing varieties, you can enjoy their beauty almost all summer.

Bearded iris flower structure: standards, beard, fouls

The color of bearded irises can be one-color, two-tone, two-color. Two-color, depending on the color transition, are divided into: amena(white color standards), variegata(standards are yellow, fouls are deep red), iridescent(colors change gradually) plicata(petals are decorated with strokes, dots, border), luminata(light-colored veins on a dark background), fantasy—plicata(veins and various strokes or dots are combined in color).

Bearded iris breeding is not a very difficult task, so hundreds of new varieties appear every year. The largest farms for breeding these flowers are located in the USA, Australia and France. In Holland they specialize in bulbous irises.

Novelties of the world selection in 2017:

Tall:

SPICE GIRLS - a flower of delicate yellow-orange hues. The inner perianth segments are strongly corrugated, pale yellow. The lower lobes are brighter, orange-brown. The beard is dark orange.

CAMPFIRE TALES - bright orange. The lower lobes of the perianth are pale brown with golden edging. The beard is light brown, with white markings on the petal around it. The upper lobes are strongly pressed against each other.

FACE LIFT - with an unusual flower shape, similar to a gypsy skirt - strongly flared, with wavy edges. Pale cream color with yellow veins. Beards are orange.

COWPOKE - Standards (upper perianth) bright apricot. Falls (lower parts of perianths) are velvety, berry-black, with purple venation around a red-orange beard.

Standard dwarfs:

COLD HEARTED - grows up to 30 cm. Standards are pale burgundy, slightly wavy, falls are deep red-burgundy in color, with a smooth edge, cream beard.

VOLCANIC SPRITE - grows up to 28 cm. Standards are pale purple, white along the edge, dark red-violet at the base; falls - pale purple, white at the edges, brick red in the middle; hairs on beards white, light yellow; the flower has a light pleasant aroma.

TOO COOL FOR SCHOOL - all petals are an icy blue-violet shade, the beard is white, with golden yellow tips.

RHOSLYN BERRY - loose, open flower. The standards are crimson purple, the falls are the same color with a dark red spot in the middle. Purple beard. It has a light pleasant aroma.

Unbearded irises

Swamp or water-loving

This group includes hybrids of marsh iris, bristly, multi-colored, smooth. The advantages of all varieties of the group include their moisture-loving nature (indispensable for planting near a reservoir and in shallow water), resistance to adverse factors, early and long flowering. The shape and color of flowers in moisture-loving hybrids is rather modest - most often they are yellow or blue irises of various shades. The leaves are narrow, xiphoid, long. Easily propagated by seeds and vegetatively. Prefers acidic soils with high moisture content.

The most common varieties in Russia:

BERLIN TIGER - yellow irises with dark veins, reminiscent of the skin of a tiger. Height - 60 -70 cm

VARIEGATA is a variety whose main decoration is not yellow medium-sized flowers, but bicolor white-green leaves.

CREME DE LA CREME - pale cream flowers, small purple veins at the base of the petals.

FLORE PLENA - bright yellow irises, with a darker bordered spot in the middle. Can reach a height of 1.8 m.

GOLDEN QUEEN - bright yellow iris without strokes and inclusions. Height - up to 90 cm

Siberian irises

Siberian irises include many different hybrids of both the Siberian iris itself, and blood-red iris and horn-leaved iris. These species are distinguished by the presence of 28 chromosomes in the cells. They are widely distributed in nature. A huge number of interspecific hybrids have been created in the culture, which are distinguished by winter hardiness, the beauty of the flower, and the color of the leaves that does not turn yellow all summer. Most (up to 95%) varieties of Siberian irises are based on 28-chromosome hybrids. In landscape design, Siberian irises are used in mixborders, group plantings on the lawn, to create a border around trees and shrubs. Plants are highly valued for their ability to endure severe frosts even without snow cover, resistance to waterlogging of the soil, abundant flowering, beautiful bush shape. Siberian irises do not require constant planting and can grow into huge curtains without losing the quality of flowering. The color range of modern varieties is huge, and some flowers can even look different in the morning, afternoon or evening.

Modern varieties:

BOOK OF SECRETS - up to 70 cm high, small standards, white with a warm yellow tint, falls - white with a golden spot. It has a low aroma and is very popular for cutting.

BUNDLE OF JOY - terry variety. Standards - from 6 to 9 pieces of lavender color, falls - with a blue spot.

DIRIGO BLACK VELVET - height 107-112 cm, dark blue irises, falls with a bright yellow spot cut with dark veins.

DANCE AND SING - height 65 cm, a plant with a very large flower, wide, almost not corrugated petals. The color is pale yellow, the standards are more white. It has a slight pleasant aroma.

Siberian iris DANCE AND SING

DEAR CURRIER - soft blue standards with dark blue veins, falls - deep blue with a light border and a small spot of yellow. The petals are corrugated.

Siberian iris DEAR CURRIER

Chrysographs- Sino-Siberian irises or Sino-Siberian, which came to us from China. They look like Siberian iris, but have a set of 40 chromosomes, differ in a looser bush and light green foliage. The petal is easily recognizable, as it is decorated with strokes and spots. Breeding work in this group is carried out recently and they are still quite rare in culture.

Japanese irises- under this name, various varieties of plants of the species "Iris xiphoid, aka" Kaempfer's iris "are united. Selection work with this group of plants is most actively carried out in Japan, from where it got its name. In Russia, Japanese irises winter without shelter only in the southern regions. These flowers do not tolerate stagnant water and waterlogging, prefer slightly acidic soil. In Russia, these plants are selected in Barnaul (Dolganova Z.V.) and in Vladivostok (Mironova L.N.). The Japanese irises of Zoya Vladimirovna Dolganova take root well in central Russia, but the flowers from Vladivostok are more capricious due to the warm and humid climate in which they grow.

Spuria. These are irises of the genus Xyridion. The group includes the following species: spuria, pontic, cereal, note, salt-loving, oriental iris, monnieri, golden and many other species. They differ in the height of the peduncle and the size of the flower. Basically, these flowers are found in nature in a wild form and have appeared in culture quite recently. Some varieties prefer dry soil, while others prefer waterlogged soil. In general, spuria irises are quite unpretentious.

Louisiana- a group of heat-loving irises, the cultivation and selection of which gardeners in America and Australia are passionate about. It includes 5 wild-growing species - six-ribbed, brown-yellow, short-stemmed, giant blue, Nelson. In Russia, Louisiana irises are mainly represented in botanical gardens, and only a few varieties with blue and pink flowers have taken root and successfully bloom in the open field.

Californian or Pacific Coast irises have long narrow leathery evergreen leaves. They prefer acidic soils, they do not tolerate transplanting very well, therefore they are difficult to propagate. In nature, their habitat is the states of California, Oregon, Washington. Plants belonging to this group, which includes at least 10 species, usually have a small bush size, bloom in early summer and differ in flower color.

bulbous irises

In Russia, botanists exclude bulbous plants from the genus Iris, but in the Western tradition there are bulbous irises, and with this name they come to us for sale from nurseries and farms in Holland. Dutch irises are widely represented on our shelves.

Bulbous irises include three types: iridodictium (mesh iris), juno (Bukhara iris), xifium. Reticulated iris is the most winter-hardy and stable in the conditions of central Russia. It blooms in early spring, does not require annual digging of bulbs, has a large number of varieties of various colors.

Conclusion

As you can see, there are a great many varieties of irises in the world. We sincerely hope that the photographs and descriptions of flowers presented in this article will help you choose the right varieties for your landscape design.

Iris - the personification of grace and grace

rainbow flower

plain (self) - white, pastel, saturated, almost black;
combinations with the traditional combination of colors - white with blue, yellow with brown;
contrasting combinations of tones and shades, for example, pink with lavender;
variegated (speckled, bordered).

bearded (the most numerous, widespread and demanded group);
Siberian;
Japanese;
Spuria irises;
bulbous hybrids (Dutch or English).

Before purchasing collection irises, carefully read the assortment and resistance of the specimen you like to the climatic conditions of your region. Many of the hybrids bred in the USA, Japan, Holland, Australia are thermophilic and cannot withstand the frosts of the middle zone, not to mention Siberia or the Urals.

bearded irises

More than 500 varieties and interspecific hybrids - bearded iris can boast of such a large family.

A powerful, resilient and unpretentious perennial according to the height of the bush is divided into 3 groups:

dwarf varieties (21–40 cm);
medium height (41–70 cm);
tall (from 71 cm).

A distinctive feature, because of which the iris received its specific name, is the so-called beard. This is a shaggy strip of dense short hairs located at the base of the central vein of the outer fouls. In color, it can either match the main background or contrast with it.

View advantages

It is no coincidence that bearded irises are so popular. In addition to the magnificent appearance and the most extensive palette of colors and shades, they have a lot of other advantages.

The plant grows rapidly and intensively.
Blooms profusely and for a long time.
A large number of frost-resistant varieties have been developed that do not need to be covered for the winter.
The flower is hardy, rarely gets sick, resistant to pests.

Bearded irises are good in the flower bed and in the cut. Dwarf varieties are appropriate in borders and on alpine slides, solo and in composition with other perennials. Tall specimens are indispensable for tapeworms, they look great in company with lilies and peonies.

Overview of popular varieties

Supreme Sultan is a two-color hybrid of American selection, a powerful plant with a height of more than a meter. The inner petals (standards) are of a rich yellow-ocher color, collected in a crown, the falls are cherry-burgundy with a yellow beard, lowered low. The edge of the petals is corrugated. The flowering period is May-June.
In the photo - the American variety Supreme Sultan
Thornbird is a popular variety of green-flowered "bearded men", tall (over 80 cm) with a strong peduncle and a luxurious fan of leaves. The flower is large (ø 13–14 cm), orchid-shaped, with creamy standards and greenish-mustard falls, on which a yellow beard with a violet-brown horn stands out. Blooms in June-July, luxuriantly and abundantly. Suitable for growing in the middle lane.
Green-flowered cultivar Thornbird
Sultan Palace refers to the spectacular monochromatic hybrids of the Dutch selection. The height of the bush is about a meter, the flower is large with a diameter of up to 15 cm. The upper and lower petals are dense, velvety, rich reddish-brown in color with burgundy veins along the field and a slightly corrugated edge, the beard is yellow. The flower smells good. The plant belongs to a highly winter-hardy group, will delight with long and lush flowering.
Red - one of the most elegant irises
Vibrant is a variety of irises for those who love yellow flowers, so magnificent in the flower bed. The color is monophonic, dense, golden yellow, the petals are strongly corrugated along the edge, yellow-orange beards are barely visible at the base of the falls. The flower has a light refined aroma. The plant itself is of excellent quality, tall (from 85 cm), large-flowered, does not degenerate during the growing season. Blooms early.
A flower for lovers of sunny irises
Vizir is a magnificent tall variety with large monochromatic flowers. A rich palette of petals plays with raspberry-violet, cranberry, pomegranate hues. The petals are corrugated with "bubbles" along the edge. An orange beard stands out on bright falls.
In the photo - a variety of irises Vizir
Champagne Waltz is a tall two-color hybrid of the American originator. The standards are a delicate peach hue with apricot venation, the falls are white with an apricot-yellow border, lowered low. The petals are dense, corrugated, with a velvet texture. The beard is red-orange.
Border on the edge of fouls - a new trend in the selection of irises, Champagne Waltz variety
Immorality is an amazing white iris, shown in the photo below. Standards, fouls, beard - everything in this flower is pure snow-white, the petals are slightly wavy, with a velvet texture. The height in the peduncle is 75–85 cm. The uniqueness of the variety is in remontance. The first time blooms in May, again, under favorable weather conditions - in September. Differs in good frost resistance.
Re-blooming iris variety Immorality
Toronto is a tall mid-early hybrid of the American originator. The flowers are large (ø 13–16 cm), two-colored, soaring. The inner petals are a warm pinkish-peach color with a wavy edge, the falls are a contrasting maroon tone, turning along the edge into a burgundy-pink "lace" frill. A red-orange beard stands out clearly on a dark foul. Very colorful, elegant flower!
In the photo - Toronto iris
Super Model is a tall solid handsome man with large lavender flowers. The shape of the flower is orchid with soaring falls, the petals are corrugated, with a fringed edge, decorated with an orange beard with white tips. Iris of this variety smells good. Blooms in July, winter-hardy.
Elegant variety - a real Supermodel
Super Hero is a real superhero with a hat of large heavy flowers on a strong high peduncle. The crown is formed by white standards with a golden border, the falls are horizontally located, with an ocher area in the center, turning into maroon, almost black edges. A golden yellow beard stands out as a bright spot on the petal. Bicolor variety Superhero

Siberian irises

Our compatriot Siberian iris in the photo looks like a bearded relative, but has a number of differences in structure, agricultural technology and description of the flower.

The shape of the flower is similar, but it is somewhat smaller, without a beard, the petals are narrower and elongated. Although in fairness it must be said that some modern varieties in terms of flower size can compete with beard irises.
The plant grows into large bushes and kicks out just a huge number of flower stalks.
The foliage of this species is brighter and more elegant, it serves as a decoration of the garden even after flowering.
The view is extremely hardy, cold-resistant, more reliable in adverse weather conditions.
Unlike the bearded iris, this flower can grow and bloom in shade.

Unfortunately, Siberian irises do not smell. But this does not detract from the decorative possibilities of the flower and the interest in it from breeders.

Assortment of Siberian irises

Dozens of varieties and hybrids of Siberian irises have been bred in the world for every taste, some of them we have collected in this collection with photos and names.

The Snow Queen is a tall "Siberian" with bright green foliage and an incredibly elegant medium-sized flower (ø 10 cm). Petals are snow-white, in places of bends of fouls - with a bright yellow back. Blooms in July. In especially cold winters, in order to avoid freezing of generative buds, it is better to cover.
In the photo Siberian iris Snow Queen
Cambridge is a time-tested, reliable and highly decorative variety. The height of the bush is 80–100 cm. The flower is medium in size, graceful, with soaring azure-blue petals and a yellow base. Grows fast, blooms profusely. The variety is resistant to severe frosts.
Sky Blue Iris Cambridge
Impression is a medium-sized representative of Siberian irises with half-meter peduncles. The flower plays with a mixture of purple-red and amethyst with brindle strokes at the base of the lower petals, the styles are almost white.
Amethyst Iris Impression
Magnum Bordeaux is an impressive hybrid with a very large soaring flower on a 70 cm peduncle. The petals are slightly corrugated, with a velvety texture, very elegant. Intense purple color complemented by blue-yellow spots at the base of the falls and purple streaks.
One of the brightest representatives of the species
Double Standard is a representative of the collection of terry Siberian irises. The flower is blue with a lavender tint, there is a contrasting yellow spot on the falls. The petals are velvety, dense, slightly corrugated. Blooms in June. The variety is recommended by leading flower growers as unpretentious, frost-resistant, intensively growing.
Terry petals give the flower a resemblance to Japanese irises
Ginge Twist is a tall, early, profusely flowering "Siberian". The flower is two-tone - the upper lobes are light fawn with lavender spots, the falls are ocher-yellow, turning into a mustard edge, with brown venation and small patches of lavender. One of the few smelling varieties of Siberian irises.
Each peduncle Jinje Twist bears 5-7 buds

Japanese irises

Vasily Alferov is one of the first winter-hardy cultivars of domestic selection. Standards are white, fouls are speckled blue-orange. Snow-white styles are completed with a fringed scallop. On the arrow-shaped peduncle there are 3-4 flowers with a diameter of up to 20 cm.
Kogesho is a xiphoid hybrid of Dutch selection, tall (80–120 cm). The leaves are light green with a central purple vein. The flower consists of a double row of lilac-white petals with a yellow spot at the base, the styles are white with a coquettish comb. The variety hibernates under cover.
In the photo - a popular variety Kogesho
Lyon King is a magnificent hybrid with a very large flower. It consists of 9 shares, collected in a fluffy layering "skirt". Petals with snow-white centers and purple-pink corrugated edges, a yellow stroke is noticeable at the base of the central vein, styles are white. The variety is thermophilic.
In the photo - variety King Lion
Crystal Helo is a frost-resistant plant with strong growth and lush flowering. The upper and lower petals are slightly corrugated along the edge, lowered down. The main field and styles are blue-lavender in color with purple veining; bright yellow strokes run along the central vein of the fouls.
Purple yellow Japanese iris
Freckled Geisha is a terry hybrid with nine shares. The petals are snow-white with lilac-purple specks and the same border, corrugated along the edge. The branches of the pistils are white with a lilac comb. Plant height - up to 85 cm.
Lilac White Iris Freckld Geisha

Bulb relatives of irises

Bulbous xifiums are flowers very similar to irises. In the English, Dutch tradition they are called bulbous irises.

This is what bulbous iris looks like

In the southern regions, this flower is cultivated quite successfully, but in the north it does not take root, and even if it blooms in some years, then it withers and disappears.

Another flower, reminiscent of either irises or daylilies, is the now fashionable alstroemeria.

In the photo - alstroemeria

Video about the types and popular varieties of irises:

Varieties of irises

Iris- a flower of incredible beauty, moreover, absolutely unpretentious. Therefore, it has become a favorite of all gardeners and florists.

Flowers are quite popular, they can often be seen growing in flower beds, suburban areas, in yards and even in pots. They are indispensable in many flower arrangements and. And all because irises come in different sizes, shapes and colors. There are approximately 250 species of them. And the number of varieties reaches almost 4 thousand.

Iris classification

bearded iris- got its name from the presence of colored hairs on the recurved petals, which are very similar to a beard. All possible varieties of garden iris belong to it. And this is about 80 thousand. varieties. Among the bearded, 6 main groups are distinguished:

Miniature Dwarfs;
Standard Dwarfs;
High Miniatures;
curbs;
Sideshow;
Standard High.

beardless iris- he does not have a beard, but the flowering is large and plentiful. It includes 4 groups:

Siberian;
Japanese;
Spuria;
Irises of the Water Garden.

bulbous irises- differ in early flowering, these include:

Iridodictium;
xifium
Juno.

The most original types of irises

Each group includes many different varieties. Therefore, we consider only the most unique options from the above.

Louisiana iris - moisture-loving, loves sunny places, great for cutting, feels great on the shore of a reservoir, can grow on the bottom, when immersed in water by 10-15 cm.

Iris Regelia - named after the botanist Eduard Regel, bred from heat-loving varieties, grows well and blooms in our conditions.

Iris Iridodictium Vinogradova - graceful, distinguished by an original pattern on the flowers, loves sunlight and does not tolerate an abundance of moisture.

Iris Dutch Xifium - a pretty, colorful flower occupies one of the first places, among other irises, in the winter assortment of the flower market.

Iris Juno - boasts refined petals and rich colors, and interestingly, new varieties of this plant are still being found.

Japanese iris - whimsical and thermophilic, grows up to 1 meter, does not like transplantation and excessive dampness.

Iris Spuria - little known and unique, its advantage is that the lifespan of a flower lasts about a week.

Flowers- a source of good mood and positive emotions. When choosing them in, pay attention to irises, they are great for both, and

It is no coincidence that these delicate and fragile flowers received such a beautiful name in honor of the goddess of the rainbow: they surprise with the richness of the variety of appearance and colors.

This plant is called iris. Flowers attract experienced flower growers not only for their cute appearance, but also for their unusual flowering times. They fill some pause between the first spring and summer flowers. For all their external fragility, irises are unpretentious, and growing them on the site does not require much effort and expense.

Below is a description of the plant, its varieties and features, as well as the rules for planting and care.

General information

Irises are common almost everywhere, as they are unpretentious and therefore enjoy particular popularity among flower lovers. This plant is mentioned in many ancient legends, myths, tales and signs. The flower is a symbol of hope and trust, friendship and strong bonds.

Today, irises are grown not only as a decoration of the garden, they are also used in the production of confectionery (there is even jam from iris flowers), as well as in perfumery and medicine.

We will talk about the features of the plant, the rules for caring for it below. Let's talk about flowers that look like irises.

About the name and meaning of iris

The legendary flower, as noted above, was named after Iris, the Greek goddess of the rainbow. The reason for this comparison is that this plant is found with a wide variety of flower colors. There are many varieties that combine several shades. Iris has two more popular names: Cockerel and Kasatik.

The meaning of the name of the iris flower is unique and interesting. The plant has been known for over 1000 years. In those ancient times, the flower was a popular heraldic sign, but later it was replaced by a lily. This could happen due to the fact that the name of these plants is consonant (iris is also called "saber lily").

In addition, the characters corresponding to the phrase "warrior spirit" and the word "iris" in Japanese have the same spelling. Therefore, the inhabitants of Japan believe that a bouquet with irises is able to awaken all the best qualities of a man.

Iris in the language of flowers means purity, impeccability and greatness.

general description

The iris flower is a bit like an orchid. He has beautiful and delicate buds, bewitching with their colors. The iris plant is a perennial crop. Its peculiarity is that the root system is located in the upper layer of the soil. Iris stems are simple and branched, can grow singly or in bunches, depending on the variety.

Leaves are xiphoid, gathering at the base of the stem. The corolla-shaped perianth has the shape of a tube with a six-parted bend. At the base of the flower, the petals are collected in a tube, where the nectar is located. The flowering time of the plant depends on the place of growth. For example, in central Russia, iris blooms from late May to July. Irises are distributed in the territories of almost all continents. They are absent only where severe drought prevails and where it is very cold.

There are plants with red, blue, yellow, purple, pink and other flowers. In almost all species, a peculiar beautiful pattern stands out in the middle part of the petals, which differs in color from the main color.

Varieties

Iris is a generalized name for several plants that have different types of root systems: bulbous and rhizome. It should be noted that the bulb and rhizome are not roots. These are just thickened shoots.

Currently, there is no generally accepted classification of plants of the genus Iris. Therefore, in Russia, only plants with a rhizomatous root system are considered true irises, while in the world, on the contrary, bulbous irises are recognized as such.

Despite the presented differences in the root system, a fairly clear general description can be given for these plants. The flower, located on an annual peduncle, is solitary and large, exudes a strong aroma. It consists of six petals arranged in two tiers: the outer three petals (falls) are curved outward, and the inner ones (standards) are raised up and look like a dome. Thin flat leaves have some wax coating.

Rhizome irises are divided into 2 large groups, called bearded and non-bearded. All of them tolerate the winter frosts of Russia well.

Bulbous irises are also divided into several groups: juno, iridodictium and xifium. In turn, the genus Xifium includes six species that are quite widely used in breeding. Thanks to the work of breeders, today irises are represented by a huge variety of varieties: Spanish, Dutch, English hybrid bulbous irises and many others.

growth conditions

Many varieties of this plant can re-bloom in the fall. It should be noted that only 2-3 years after planting the plant, all the splendor and beauty of irises is revealed.

Growing these flowers on the site is not a very difficult task, but there are some features. Irises prefer light soils with an alkaline reaction. They may not bloom in acidic soils, but in them the flowers quickly and well develop the leaf apparatus. To neutralize acidic soils, you can add a little lime or ash.

If necessary, fertilizers are applied about 10 days before planting. For iris, depleted soils are better suited than overfertilized ones. From an excess of the latter, the plant may die. Thus, in terms of applying organic fertilizers (for example, manure), care is not so difficult. The iris flower can be fed with mineral mixtures.

It should be noted that another reason for the lack of flowering may be planting the plant in the shade. These flowers are photophilous. There are, of course, among the rhizomatous irises plants that bloom in the partial shade of trees. However, no bulbous variety likes shading. In addition, the tightness and great depth of the roots of the plant can also cause some problems when growing.

Planting rhizomatous irises

Iris flowers must be watered immediately after planting, but do not rush with the next watering. This should be done as the root soil dries completely. Waterlogging is one of the reasons for the death of iris. If there is a close location of groundwater, you should slightly raise the site and make drainage.

Rhizome varieties of the plant can be planted in open ground in August, bulbous - in September (in central Russia) and in October (in the southern regions). If necessary, they can be planted in the spring, but for this, the planting material should be treated with a growth stimulator and very long and rotting roots should be removed. For disinfection, they can also be held in potassium permanganate. But, most likely, flowers planted in the spring will not bloom in the year of planting.

Planting seeds

How to grow irises from seed? The method is very simple, but has some subtleties. You can plant seeds in the fall - in September. This method allows the seeds to go through a natural preparation. In the spring, the first shoots appear. However, it should be remembered that irises planted in autumn can germinate before the cold weather, and subsequent frosts can kill these seedlings. In this regard, the best way to grow from seeds is to plant in the spring. But this method is more labor intensive.

First you need to prepare the seeds. To do this, in early February, wrap them with a damp cloth and keep them in this state in a cold place until March (you can in the refrigerator). Then, in early March, planted in a container with soil, and transplanted into open ground in May.

Iris in the house

Are there homemade irises? Dwarf flowers and some bulbous varieties can be planted at home.

At the end of summer, the roots of plants should be transplanted into containers, watered and placed in a cool place, periodically watering as the soil dries out. Soil composition: peat, humus and sand. In January, irises should be placed on the windowsill on the south side of the house. For home flowers, watering should also be moderate, water stagnation should not be allowed. Under favorable conditions and proper care, the flower can bloom in a month. Feeding the plant with a mineral mixture once every two weeks is welcome. And after flowering, it should be watered for some time, and at the end of spring it can already be planted in open ground.

There is one lush indoor plant - neomarika. It belongs to the iris family. In nature, it grows along the coast of Africa (western) and in South America. Externally, it is a fairly voluminous bush, covered with fragrant and delicate flowers. It has other names: devil's paw, apostolic iris. Iris-like flowers are common in the wild.

Significance in medicine

The iris flower is of great importance in folk medicine. For medicinal purposes, its root, which has a rich chemical composition, is mainly used.

Infusions prepared from the rhizome are used orally for bronchitis, severe coughs, pneumonia, diseases of the bladder and kidneys, dropsy, constipation, stomach pain and poisoning. It is also used externally - it is a rinse for inflammation of the mouth and throat, for tonsillitis, tonsillitis, stomatitis.

Irises in landscape design

In many Russian cities there are shops of the Iris flower salon chain with the most diverse assortment of plants, both domestic and garden. In them you can also buy a magnificent bouquet with these surprisingly delicate flowers.

It is best to grow irises yourself if you have a garden plot. They look great both in compositions with other flowers and plants, and separately. The most important feature of these flowers is that they allow you to fill the pause between the flowering of spring and summer plants. When creating a landscape and planting flowers, consider this unique feature. It must be remembered that wilted flowers must be removed so as not to spoil the look of the flower bed.

There are several wild-growing and cultivated species similar to irises in the form of leaves and in the appearance of their inflorescences.

Here are some of them:

alstroemeria;
water iris;
iridodictum;
orchids;
snapdragon (some breeding varieties);
cuckoo tears.

Flowers similar to irises are easily confused with them.