Siberian Iris

(Iris sibirica)

Siberian Iris (Iris sibirica)

GFDL 1.2

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Estimated Native Range

Summary

Iris sibirica, commonly known as Siberian iris or Siberian flag, is a rhizomatous herbaceous perennial native to damp meadows, riverbanks, and grassy slopes of Europe and West and Central Asia. It typically grows to a height of 2-4 feet (0.6-1.2 meters) with long, slender, grass-like leaves. The plant produces tall stems topped with 2-5 striking violet-blue to blue, and occasionally white flowers, each with a distinctive yellow or white blaze on the falls (the downward-arching segments of the flower). The Siberian iris blooms in late spring to early summer and is known for its elegant form and showy flowers.

Siberian iris is valued for its hardiness, low maintenance, and resistance to deer and rabbits, making it a popular choice for temperate gardens. It is often used in waterside plantings, as it can tolerate moist conditions, and is also effective in herbaceous borders, naturalized gardens, and meadows. While it prefers full sun, it can tolerate part shade, especially in hot, arid regions where it benefits from some afternoon shade. The plant requires well-drained, fertile soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH and benefits from the addition of organic matter at planting. Siberian iris is hardy to USDA Zone 2–8, and Zone H1, indicating its ability to withstand very cold temperatures. Mulching in winter can help protect the rhizomes in colder climates. Over time, clumps may become dense and can be divided in late summer to rejuvenate growth.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

Plant Type: Herb
Height: 2-3 feet
Width: 1-2 feet
Growth Rate: Moderate
Flower Color: Blue, Purple, White
Flowering Season: Spring
Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
Water: Medium
Drainage: Medium, Slow

Common Uses

Bank Stabilization, Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant, Rabbit Resistant, Rock Garden, Salt Tolerant, Showy Flowers, Street Planting, Water Garden

Natural Habitat

native to damp meadows, riverbanks, and grassy slopes of Europe and West and Central Asia

Other Names

Common Names: Siberian Flag, Sibirisk Iris, Wiesen-Schwertlilie, Sibirische Schwertlilie, Iris De Sibérie, Sibirijas Skalbe, Siberische Lis, Strandiris, Sibirisk Svärdslilja

Scientific Names: , Iris sibirica, Iris bicolor, Iris pratensis, Iris acuta, Iris flexuosa, Iris maritima, Iris sibirica var. albida, Limniris sibirica, Biris sibirica

GBIF Accepted Name: Iris sibirica L.