Siberian Iris (Iris sibirica): History, Characteristics, Cultivars & Cultivation

The iris family (Iris spp.) includes more than 300 species, but the most common garden varieties all feature flowers with drooping outer petals and upright inner petals. Most irises grow in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 3 to 9, but hardiness depends on the specific variety. These perennials require minimal maintenance, but they do benefit from root division every three to five years to minimize overcrowding. Divide in late summer or early fall, after the plants are done flowering.

Siberian Iris (Iris sibirica) has a slender, grass-like leaves that form clumps. The blossoms can be in a variety of colors, including shades of purple, blue, white and pink. It is native to Central and Eastern Europe, where it grows in moist to wet soils in full sun to part shade. It is hardy to USDA Hardiness Zones 3 to 8, which means it can withstand temperatures down to -4° degrees Fahrenheit (-20° C). The plant can reach a height of 2 feet, although some cultivars can be taller. It blooms in late spring to early summer, and each flower lasts for about two to three weeks.

Siberian Iris is an easy-to-grow plant that requires minimal care. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and does not tolerate standing water. It is a low-maintenance plant that does not require frequent watering or fertilization. However, it does benefit from being divided every few years to maintain its vigor and prevent overcrowding.

This Iris can be used in a variety of garden settings, including cottage gardens, cut-flower gardens, pollinator gardens, rain gardens, containers, and near ponds and streams. It also makes a great companion plant for other perennials such as aquilegia, daisies, lupines, peonies, phlox, and pinks.

Cultivars of Siberian Iris (Iris sibirica)