The sections are based on height and are derived from a number of species. The flowers sit on top of blade-like leaves and their rhizomes love the sun at the soil surface, so keep them clear of invasive ground cover plants.
The tall section, which flowers in June and grows to 2.5ft, includes the pink ‘Party Dress’, the white with red beard ‘Frost and Flame’ and the apricot ‘Top Flight’.
You may need to stake the tall stems of ‘Light Cavalry’, which is magenta and white, but it will be well worth it. Plant ‘Kent Pride’ in full sun for a good show of crimson and yellow, while borders will have a cool influence from the pale blooms of I. ‘White City’, and if you have damp conditions try I. ensata.
The intermediate section grows from 9in to 2.5ft, while the dwarfs (under 9in and flowering in April) are ideal for the front of the border.
Bearded irises prefer a slightly limy soil and should be divided every few years after flowering.
Author: Jonny
Author of Gardening Life!