Iris

Iris is a genus of perennial flowering plants endemic to the temperate Northern Hemisphere that grows from creeping rhizomes or bulbs that originate from drier climates. Iris exists in the following subgenera, Iris (bearded rhizomatous irises), Limniris (beardless rhizomatous irises), Xiphium (smooth bulbed bulbous irises), Nepalensis (bulbous irises), Scorpiris (smooth bulbed bulbous irises) and hermodactyloides (reticulate bulbed bulbous irises), further described into numerous species with natural hybrids and cultivars. Different iris varieties start flowering at different times of the year, from late winter to summer because of their genetic variation arising from their diverse geographic and ecological origins. Iris species vary in height, well drained or wet acidic soil and sun requirements, flower colour and scent. Iris is best planted as bare root plants in late summer with their underground storage organ visible on the surface of well drained soil in an open sunny area. Propagate iris by seeds or by dividing clumps. Irises attract and support pollinators with their colourful nectar rich flowers.