Iris FlowersFacts, Types, Meaning and Care Tips
Irises are beautiful, unique flowers that are instantly recognisable. They're perfect for brightening up indoor and outdoor spaces, and bring a boost of colour to any bouquet. Read on to learn all about irises; how to grow them, look after them, their varieties and symbolism.
Iris flower meaning
Iris flowers mean eloquence, faith, wisdom and hope. This is because they signal the start of spring, and the new life and beginnings it brings.
Interestingly, iris in Greek means "rainbow", a nod perhaps to the wide range of vibrant colours irises come in. From white and yellow to deepest purple, there are so many different colour varieties of iris and each one carries its own specific meaning: Purple Iriswisdom and complimentsBlue Irisfaith and hopeYellowPassionWhite IrisPurityIris mythology
In Greek mythology, Iris was the messenger of the Gods, who, clothed in a cloak of raindrops, communicated via a rainbow, the bridge between Heaven and Earth.
This is why the iris flower is said to mean communication and eloquence. Its also worth noting that the Greek word eiris means "messenger" which could also be where the flower gets its name. a few facts about Iris flowers
These beautiful flowers are quite interesting too. Here's a few things you probably didn't know about Iris:
Types of iris
There are over 250 varieties of iris, and they come in an array of colours - blue, purple, yellow, white, pink, orange, brown, red and even black - but the most common and well-known colour is purple.
Irises are fairly easy to grow and come from either a rhizome (tubular underground roots) or a single bulb (bulbous). Rhizome IrisesThese irises have thickened roots that grow horizontally underground (very close to the surface). Well-known rhizome irises are the bearded iris, beardless iris and crested iris. Beardless and crested irises are considered to be very similar and are often grouped together.
Bulbous IrisesAs the name suggests these irises grow from bulbs and are smaller than their rhizome counterparts. They most commonly come from Europe and are classified as Dutch, Spanish and English irises. They are popular with florists because they produce fragrant, showy flowers.Iris Care Tips
As Iris are such wonderful flowers, you'll want them to last as long as possible. Heres how to get the most from your Iris flowers:
Common questions about irisesWhat do iris bulbs look like?Iris bulbs are often referred to as rhizomes, and they look like long, thin potatoes with roots attached.When do iris flowers bloom?Irises are hardy perennial flowers that will come back each year. They flower any time from late winter to early spring.When are iris flowers available?Iris flowers are in season from April to June and cut iris flowers can be obtained all year. Take care when using irises in warmer months because they dont last long in the heat.What is a water iris?A water iris is a pond plant that is great for adding a bit of colour and keeping the water clear. Water irises need to be added to very shallow water (less than 5cm - 2in) and mud.What do iris bulbs look like?Iris bulbs are often referred to as rhizomes, and they look like long, thin potatoes with roots attached.How do I plant irises?Irises are the perfect addition to any garden, these hardy plants attract butterflies and hummingbirds and will come back every year for you to enjoy.Tip: You can plant irises in pots and keep them indoors. Just make sure you place them on a sunny windowsill. When: Plant iris rhizomes in August and September and make sure their roots are partially exposed so they get baked by the summer sun - ready for next years flowers. Where: Irises do well in both full and partial sunlight. Just make sure they have at least half a day of sunlight and be careful not to shade your irises with other plants (especially bearded irises). How: Grow your irises in garden soil that is moist and well-drained. Irises prefer neutral, fertilized soil to anything acidic. Sowing: Dont plant rhizomes too close together as this will lead to overcrowding and will mean fewer flowers. Dig a shallow hole about 25cm (10 inches) wide and about 10cm (4 inches) deep. Make a ridge of soil in the middle and place your rhizome on top, then spread the roots down each side. Now cover the roots on each side with soil and pat it down firmly and gently. Be sure to keep the main rhizome exposed and water thoroughly. Care: Deadhead your irises using shears and remove any whole spent stems. In late summer remove any withered leaves. | ||||