bulb corm tuber

Dutch Iris 'Delft Blue'

Iris x hollandica 'Delft Blue'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Bulb Corm Tuber

Height

22 inches

Width

6 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Average moisture during growth; keep dry when dormant

Humidity

Prefers dry to moderate humidity

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Garden origin

Toxicity

All parts are toxic if ingested; can cause skin irritation.

The Story

Plant Bio

Iris x hollandica, or Dutch Iris, are bulbous perennials resulting from complex crosses of several iris species. They are prized for their elegant, orchid-like flowers on tall, slender stems, making them exceptional cut flowers. Named after the famous Dutch pottery, 'Delft Blue' features flowers with light blue standards and deep violet-blue falls, each marked with a striking yellow-orange blotch. The flowers are borne on sturdy stems, ideal for cutting.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Provides striking blue flowers in early spring, enhancing garden aesthetics.

Easy to grow with minimal maintenance, suitable for naturalized areas.

Supports pollinators like bees and butterflies during bloom.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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Planting

How to Grow

Tuck bulbs 4-6 inches deep in well-draining soil in early fall.
Water thoroughly after planting to settle soil around bulbs.
Thin out overcrowded clumps after foliage dies back, typically every 3-4 years.
Divide and replant in late summer or early fall for best results.
Mulch lightly to retain moisture and suppress weeds during growing season.
Monitor for pests and diseases, and remove any affected foliage promptly.

Pro Tip

Plant in full sun for vibrant blooms and ensure excellent drainage to prevent bulb rot.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water during dry spells in growing season 💧
Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring 🌱
Remove spent flowers to encourage healthy foliage
Mulch to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature

Don't

Never plant in poorly drained soil ❌
Avoid overwatering in winter ❌
Don’t ignore pest signs or disease symptoms
Refrain from cutting back foliage prematurely

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Deadhead
Fertilize
Harvest
Plant
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Violet‑flowered border with a sweet scentClumps in rock gardens for striking vertical accentsPlant along pathways for early spring color

Companion Plants

Daylilies Alliums Peonies Lavender Sedum

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Dutch Iris 'Delft Blue' questions

What zones can Dutch Iris 'Delft Blue' grow in?

Dutch Iris 'Delft Blue' is hardy in USDA Zones 5–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Dutch Iris 'Delft Blue' deer resistant?

Yes — Dutch Iris 'Delft Blue' is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Dutch Iris 'Delft Blue' bloom?

Dutch Iris 'Delft Blue' typically blooms in late spring through late spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Dutch Iris 'Delft Blue' need full sun?

Dutch Iris 'Delft Blue' does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Dutch Iris 'Delft Blue' drought tolerant?

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