Iris Flower Types and Facts You Should Know

Purple Bearded Iris — Close up of a bearded iris

Bearded Iris Flower Types Are Widespread

Bearded irises are among the most commonly planted iris flower types and are divided into six different classes by the American Iris Society.

Another plus to growing bearded irises: They grow in Zones 3 to 9, which means they’re found in 49 states—all except Hawaii.

Iris not blooming? Here’s what to do.

Try Large Siberian Iris and Dwarf Iris Flowers

Irises come in a wide array of sizes and looks. Siberian irises can reach a whopping 4 feet tall, while dwarf irises max out at 6 inches.

Check out more iris flower types and facts you should know.

Irises Love Sunlight

Most irises thrive in full sun for at least six hours per day. The rhizomes should be partially exposed to light and air to keep them dry and safe from rot.

Check out 10 purple flowers to grow in your garden.

Choose to Grow Native Iris Flower Types

You can find 28 native plant species of irises in the United States, including western blue flag, crested and Klamath.

Get care and growing tips for blue flag iris.

Most Iris Flower Types Are Perennials

wren on iris flower — House wren on purple bearded iris

Almost 300 species exist within the iris family. Most are perennials that grow via rhizomes, which are horizontal underground plant stems that form shoots.

Next, learn how to grow Louisiana iris.

Author

Kaitlin Stainbrook

Kaitlin Stainbrook has been writing about birding and gardening for nearly a decade. While the associate editor of Birds & Blooms magazine, she dove deep into all aspects of birding and gardening and worked closely with experts in the field. She continues to learn all she can about birding and gardening, and is always looking for houseplants he...