Toughleaf Iris
(Iris tenax)
Toughleaf Iris (Iris tenax)
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Pbjamesphoto
CC BY-SA 4.0
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Pbjamesphoto
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CC BY-SA 4.0
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: Pbjamesphoto | License Type: CC BY-SA 4.0 | License URL: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0 | Uploader: Pbjamesphoto | Publisher: Wikimedia Commons | Title: Iris_Tenax,_Coastal_Oregon,_April_2015.jpg | Notes: {{Information |Description=Burroweed (Isocoma tenuisecta), taken 9/17/07 in Tucson, AZ |Source=self-made |Date=9/17/07 |Author=Sue_in_az }} |
Estimated Native Range
Summary
Iris tenax, commonly known as Toughleaf Iris, is an evergreen perennial herb native to the Pacific Northwest, specifically to the open woodlands and grassy slopes of Northern California, Oregon, and Washington. It typically grows to a height of 6-12 inches (15-30 cm) with a similar spread. The Toughleaf Iris is characterized by its slender, grass-like leaves, which are narrow for an iris, seldom exceeding 5 mm in width. The plant forms dense clumps due to its slowly spreading rhizomes. The flowers are large and showy, blooming in mid to late spring. While the most common flower color is lavender-blue to purple, variations in white, yellow, pink, and orchid shades also occur, adding to its ornamental value.
The Toughleaf Iris is valued for its drought tolerance once established, making it suitable for xeriscaping. It is often used in native plant gardens, rock gardens, and as a ground cover. This iris prefers full sun but can tolerate part shade, and it thrives in well-drained soils. While it requires medium amounts of water, it is relatively low maintenance once established. Gardeners should be aware that, although it is not prone to serious disease or pest problems, it can suffer from root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly drained soils.CC BY-SA 4.0
The Toughleaf Iris is valued for its drought tolerance once established, making it suitable for xeriscaping. It is often used in native plant gardens, rock gardens, and as a ground cover. This iris prefers full sun but can tolerate part shade, and it thrives in well-drained soils. While it requires medium amounts of water, it is relatively low maintenance once established. Gardeners should be aware that, although it is not prone to serious disease or pest problems, it can suffer from root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly drained soils.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Herb, Bulb
- Height: 0.5-1.3 feet
- Width: 1-2 feet
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Flower Color: Purple
- Flowering Season: Spring
- Leaf Retention: Evergreen
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
- Water: Medium
- Drainage: Fast, Medium
Common Uses
Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Rabbit Resistant, Rock Garden, Showy Flowers, Street Planting
Natural Habitat
Native to the open woodlands and grassy slopes of Northern California, Oregon, and Washington
Other Names
Common Names: Tough-Leaved Iris , Oregon Iris , Klamath Iris
Scientific Names: Iris tenax , Iris tenax subsp. klamathensis , Iris tenax var. gormanii , Iris gormanii , Iris tenax var. klamathewsis , Joniris tenax , Limniris klamathensis , Limniris tenax
GBIF Accepted Name: Iris tenax Douglas ex Lindl.