Origin: Hybridizer, Hamblen (1972)
Origin: Iridaceae
Light: Part shade/shade
Height: <6"
Spacing: 3-6"
Bloom: 2.5" across, floriferous, showy, small, lavender with a central yellow or white, purple striped, bearded band, on long stalk (Mid-Late Season)
Foliage: 4-16", herbaceous, light green, sword-shaped, smooth, narrow, pointed
Soil: Well-drained, rich, moist, peaty, mildly acidic to neutral
Water: Regular-low
Use: Border, hummingbirds garden, cut flowers, shade garden, rock garden, woodland garden, cut flowers, slope
Propagation: Seeds (Sow immediately after harvesting), rhizomatous root divisions
Caution: Plant may cause skin allergy - wear gloves when handling
Comments: Iris cristata or Dwarf Crested Iris is a herbaceous perennial plant with a compact, dense, clumping growth habit. It is a species iris and is a native of eastern United States. In early Spring, Iris cristata produces long stalks lined with showy lavender flowers that have yellow or white and blue bearded band on them; this is followed later by seeds. Hummingbirds and bees are magentized by the nectar-rich flowers. Freshly cut flowers looks great in floral arrangements. Dwarf Crested iris has herbaceous light green, smooth, sword-shaped foliage. It is easily propagated from freshly harvested seeds or rhizome divisions. Iris cristata thrives best in well-drained, moist, mildly acidic soil in a partly shaded or shaded environment. Mass plant Dwarf Crested Iris in the front border of the shade garden for a dramatic display. It spreads by rhizomatous roots and soon forms a nice colony. Divide when overcrowded. Iris cristata look excellent in a woodland setting or use them in the rock garden or on a slope. The ornamental flowers are really eye-catching.
Iris cristata is the state flower of the state of Tenneessee.
USDA Zones: 3-8
JennysGarden.com...Plant image and gardening description of Iris cristata (Dwarf Crested Iris) growing in Jenny's Garden
Image of bees and hummingbird attractor, Iris cristata (Dwarf Crested Iris) coming soon...
