perennial

Bearded Iris

Iris x germanica 'Aubergine a la Mode'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

Expertly Curated

Real-Time Pricing

Loved by Designers

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

36 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Low to medium

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Southern Europe and the Mediterranean region

Toxicity

All parts are toxic if ingested, especially the rhizome. Can cause skin irritation.

The Story

Plant Bio

Rhizomatous perennial with sword-like, gray-green leaves. Large, showy flowers have three upright 'standards' and three drooping 'falls', each with a fuzzy 'beard' on the upper surface. Features large, heavily ruffled flowers of a deep, velvety aubergine-purple color on both standards and falls. Known for its strong stems and good branching.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Vivid purple flowers add striking color to gardens, attracting pollinators and enhancing visual appeal.

Provides a low-maintenance perennial that thrives in well-drained soils.

Supports pollinator populations, especially bees and butterflies.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck iris rhizomes 4 inches deep in well-drained soil.
Water thoroughly after planting to settle soil.
Place in full sun for optimal flowering.
Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring.
Divide clumps every 3-4 years to maintain vigor.
Mulch lightly to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

Ensure good drainage to prevent rhizome rot and promote healthy growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Plant in full sun for best blooms 🌞
Water regularly during dry spells 💧
Divide every few years to rejuvenate plants
Use a balanced fertilizer in spring
Remove spent flowers to encourage new blooms

Don't

Avoid overly wet soil to prevent rot ❌
Don't plant too deep; keep rhizomes close to surface
Refrain from fertilizing in late fall
Avoid heavy mulching that retains excessive moisture
Do not ignore pest signs

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Deadhead
Divide
Fertilize
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 accentVivid garden bed centerpiece

Companion Plants

Daylilies Salvia Lavender Alliums Peonies

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Bearded Iris questions

What zones can Bearded Iris grow in?

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 Bearded Iris deer resistant?

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

When does Bearded Iris bloom?

Bearded Iris 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 Bearded Iris need full sun?

Bearded Iris does best in full sun (6+ hours).

Is Bearded Iris drought tolerant?

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