Species

Iris x germanicaGerman Iris

110 other cultivars

perennial

City Lights Tall Bearded Iris

Iris x germanica 'City Lights'

$11.24$14.99Save 25%

The Story

Plant Bio

Rhizomatous perennials known for their large, showy, six-petaled flowers with three upright 'standards' and three drooping 'falls'. The 'beard' is a fuzzy line on each fall. Foliage is sword-like and grayish-green.

A tall bearded iris cultivar noted for its striking, ruffled, bicolored flowers. Features deep violet-blue falls contrasted by pale blue to silvery-white standards, with yellow-orange beards.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides vibrant purple blooms in early summer, enhancing garden color and texture.

Low-maintenance perennial suitable for borders and cut flowers.

Attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies, supporting local biodiversity.

SpeciesIris x germanicaGerman Iris

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

37 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10

Water

Dry to medium

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial, requires division every 3-5 years

Native To

Hybrid

Toxicity

All parts toxic if ingested; skin irritant

Bloom period

Late spring – Early summer

In flower about 2 months of the year

Marketplace

Where to Buy

Eden BrothersDEAL

In Stock$14.99$11.24

Spring Hill Nursery

Bareroot

In Stock$17.99

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck rhizomes 2-3 inches deep in well-draining soil with organic matter.
Plant in full sun for best flowering results.
Water regularly but avoid waterlogging, especially during dormancy.
Fertilize with balanced fertilizer in early spring and after blooming.
Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Divide clumps every 3-4 years in late summer or early fall.

Pro Tip

Ensure excellent drainage to prevent rot; consider planting on a slight mound.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water during dry spells 🌱
Apply fertilizer early spring and after bloom
Divide every few years to rejuvenate

Don't

Avoid overwatering in winter ❌
Don’t plant too deep ❌
Refrain from neglecting division

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Deadhead
Divide
Fertilize
Pest Check
Prune
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Colorful perennial borderElegant rock garden accentFragrant cut flower arrangement

Companion Plants

Daylilies SalviaLavender SedumAlliums

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

City Lights Tall Bearded Iris questions

What zones can City Lights Tall Bearded Iris grow in?

City Lights Tall Bearded Iris is hardy in USDA Zones 4–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is City Lights Tall Bearded Iris deer resistant?

Yes — City Lights Tall Bearded Iris is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does City Lights Tall Bearded Iris bloom?

City Lights Tall Bearded Iris typically blooms in late spring through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does City Lights Tall Bearded Iris need full sun?

City Lights Tall Bearded Iris does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is City Lights Tall Bearded Iris drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), City Lights Tall Bearded Iris handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.