Iris

Irises are hardy perennials that come in about 200 variations and can bloom blue, purple, white,
yellow, pink, orange, brown, red and occasionally black. Although they come in many shapes
and sizes, common species of Irises are Bearded or Siberian. Iris flowers have thin, upright
foliage that looks like thick ornamental grass. The blooms do not have a footstalk and the petals
either grow straight up or spread out. The Bearded Iris has a small patch of extensions that grow
upright like a beard.
Irises grow from bulbs in good soil and, depending on variety, bloom from February to May.
Depending on variety of the bulb, irises can grow in nearly any section of the yard despite
growing conditions. Bearded Irises do, however, grow best in sunny, well-drained and slightly
acidic soil. Iris is a very popular cut flower, partially because of its many colors, sizes and
shapes. With over 200 different sorts of irises, it?s not difficult to find a variety that will match
any bouquet.