Dwarf Crested Iris
(Iris cristata)
Dwarf Crested Iris (Iris cristata)
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Elias
CC BY 4.0
Image By:
Elias
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CC BY 4.0
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: Elias | License Type: CC BY 4.0 | License URL: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ | Rights Holder: Elias | Publisher: iNaturalist | Date Created: 2021-05-15T13:29:32-07:00 |
Estimated Native Range
Summary
Iris cristata, commonly known as Dwarf Crested Iris, is a rhizomatous perennial herb native to rich, moist woodlands and stream banks in the Eastern and Central United States. It typically grows to a height of 7–10 cm (3–4 in) with a creeping habit that can form extensive colonies over time. The plant features distinctive pale lavender flowers with a white patch and orange or yellow crest, blooming in spring, usually from April to May, for a brief period. The flowers are modest in size but can be quite showy when massed together.
The Dwarf Crested Iris is valued for its low maintenance and ability to spread, creating an effective ground cover in shaded garden areas. It is often used in rock gardens, woodland settings, and as a border plant. The species is hardy down to −20 °C and can live up to 10 years under ideal conditions. It thrives in well-drained, humus-rich, neutral to slightly acidic soils (pH 6.1 to 6.5) and prefers cool, semi-shaded locations, although it can tolerate full sun. During the growing season, it requires average to above-average water but becomes dormant in winter. When planting, incorporate peat or leaf-mould and sharp sand or grit to improve soil structure. Plant the rhizomes 3–5 cm below the soil line and mulch with leaves to retain moisture. Potential issues include susceptibility to iris borer and fungal diseases such as leaf spot and root rot.CC BY-SA 4.0
The Dwarf Crested Iris is valued for its low maintenance and ability to spread, creating an effective ground cover in shaded garden areas. It is often used in rock gardens, woodland settings, and as a border plant. The species is hardy down to −20 °C and can live up to 10 years under ideal conditions. It thrives in well-drained, humus-rich, neutral to slightly acidic soils (pH 6.1 to 6.5) and prefers cool, semi-shaded locations, although it can tolerate full sun. During the growing season, it requires average to above-average water but becomes dormant in winter. When planting, incorporate peat or leaf-mould and sharp sand or grit to improve soil structure. Plant the rhizomes 3–5 cm below the soil line and mulch with leaves to retain moisture. Potential issues include susceptibility to iris borer and fungal diseases such as leaf spot and root rot.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Herb
- Height: 0.5-0.8 feet
- Width: 0.5-1 feet
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Flower Color: Blue, Purple, White
- Flowering Season: Spring
- Leaf Retention: Semi-deciduous
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
- Water: Medium
- Drainage: Slow, Medium
Common Uses
Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Groundcover, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Rabbit Resistant, Rock Garden, Salt Tolerant, Showy Flowers, Street Planting
Natural Habitat
Rich, moist woodlands and stream banks in the eastern United States
Other Names
Common Names: Crested Iris, Krypiris
Scientific Names: , Iris cristata, Iris cristata var. alba, Evansia cristata, Iris glumacea, Iris glumacea var. angustifolia, Iris odorata, Lophiris cristata, Neubeckia cristata,
GBIF Accepted Name: Iris cristata Aiton