Bearded Iris

Iris Blue Rhythm

• Position: full sun or partial shade
• Soil: well-drained, moderately fertile soil
• Rate of growth: average
• Flowering period: May and June
• Hardiness: fully hardy
  
  

  Luscious, lemon-scented, cornflower blue flowers with ruffled petals in May and June and sword-shaped, grey-green leaves, retained all year. This stately bearded iris looks lovely towards the front of a sunny, well-drained border among lavender or Russian sage. A popular, tall variety, it will need staking.

• Garden care: Bearded irises prefer full sun and neutral-alkaline soil, but if you have acidic or peaty soils you can top dress with lime before planting for good results. Plant shallowly with the upper part of the rhizome sitting on the surface of the soil, incorporating a low nitrogen fertiliser in the planting hole. After planting remove the upper-most third of the leaves to protect against wind-rock. In exposed areas stake with bamboo canes in early spring. Divide and replant about every three years.