Tall Bearded Iris

Among all the iris, Tall Bearded Iris are undoubtedly the ones that fascinate the most, as their lofty and infinitely varied flowering is a beautiful surprise in spring. These perennials owe their popularity among gardeners to both their ease of cultivation and this absolutely remarkable flowering. Their corollas, in classic or extravagant shapes, neat or disheveled, display all the colours of the rainbow, with the exception of red and black. Iris germanica, or bearded iris, are divided into three main categories, based on their size and the timing of their flowering:

- the tall bearded iris, whose flower stems stand at least 70 cm (28in) above the ground, bloom from mid-May to June.

- the intermediate and border irises, 40 to 70 cm (16 to 28in) tall when in bloom, have flowering periods from early May to early June.

- and finally the dwarf, miniature or rock garden irises, with flower stems not exceeding 40 cm (16in). These are the first to bloom in the garden, from early April to early May depending on the varieties.

By planting different varieties belonging to these three major groups, it is possible to enjoy flowering for two and a half months.

The tall bearded irises that we have gathered in these pages, due to the height and weight of their flower stems loaded with large flowers, must be planted in a sheltered location away from prevailing winds, for example against a sunny wall or in small clumps in front of dense shrubs or tall perennials that will provide wind protection and act as natural supports. Iris germanica should be planted from July to September, upon receipt, in any good, well-drained, calcareous garden soil. To flower, they require a minimum of six hours of full sun per day.