Iris germanica, commonly known as the German iris or bearded iris, is one of the most popular and widely grown species of iris. Here are the key details about this classic perennial: Foliage: Iris germanica forms clumps of sword-shaped, gray-green leaves that typically reach 12-24 inches tall. Flowers: The showy, large flowers of the German iris bloom in late spring to early summer. Each bloom has three upright "standards" and three hanging "falls" that are often a different color. Flower colors range from purple and blue to yellow, white, and pink. Growth Habit: This is a rhizomatous iris that spreads by underground stems to form dense colonies over time. Mature clumps can reach 18-24 inches tall and wide. Cultural Needs: Iris germanica thrives in full sun and well-drained, slightly alkaline soils. It is relatively drought-tolerant once established. Native Habitat: The German iris is native to the Mediterranean region, including southern Europe and North Africa. Landscape Use: This versatile iris is a classic choice for perennial borders, raised beds, rock gardens, and cut flower gardens. Its tall, imposing flowers also work well as specimen plants. Wildlife Value: The showy flowers of Iris germanica attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. The foliage also provides cover for small animals. Overall, the German iris is a hardy, long-lived perennial that offers bold, distinctive flowers in a wide range of colors. Its adaptability to different growing conditions makes it a popular and enduring choice for many home gardens.
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