Iris alberti, commonly known as Albert’s Iris, is an evergreen perennial herb native to the rocky subalpine meadows and slopes of Central Asia, particularly in Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan. It typically grows to a height of 0.5-2 feet (0.2-0.6 meters) with a width of about 1 foot (0.3 meters). Albert’s Iris has a clumping form with narrow, lance-shaped leaves that provide a grass-like appearance. The flowers are particularly showy, with a striking combination of deep purple and blue hues, and they bloom in the late spring to early summer. The blooms are often accentuated by a contrasting yellow or white pattern on the falls (the downward-curving segments of the flower).

Albert’s Iris is valued for its striking flowers and ability to thrive in rock gardens and alpine settings. It is often used in border plantings, as a ground cover, and in naturalized areas where its low water requirements and tolerance for part shade are advantageous. While it prefers well-drained soils, it can adapt to various soil types provided they do not remain waterlogged. Gardeners should be aware that while Iris alberti is generally low-maintenance, it can be susceptible to iris borer and fungal diseases such as leaf spot and root rot. To prevent these issues, proper spacing and avoiding excessive moisture on the foliage are recommended.CC BY-SA 4.0