Irises are among the easiest of perennials to grow, and they give an abundance of beauty with minimum care. Beloved for their rainbow of Spring color, irises come in many heights, forms, and even bloom times. In order to grow irises well it is helpful to know some basic iris terminology.
Iris basics
Iris are broadly divided into two types: bearded and beardless. The culture of these two broad groups of iris can be quite different so knowing what your growing is critical to your success.
Bearded iris are those most gardeners picture and are distinguished by the fluffy, hair-like appendage called a “beard” on the falls (the tradiitionally downward facing petals) of the flower. Bearded iris come in a variety of heights ranging from diminuative to over 3 feet tall.
Beardless iris, so grouped because they do not have a beard also come in a wide variety of heights, forms, and species. The Siberian iris is a popular and widely available example of beardless irises.