Species

Iris x germanicaGerman Iris

110 other cultivars

perennial

Yaquina Blue Iris

Iris x germanica 'Yaquina Blue'

The Story

Plant Bio

Iris germanica, or Bearded Iris, is a rhizomatous perennial known for its large, showy, and complex flowers, often fragrant, with six petals: three upright 'standards' and three drooping 'falls'. Its foliage consists of gray-green, sword-like leaves.

'Yaquina Blue' is a tall bearded iris featuring ruffled, sky blue to lavender-blue flowers with a small white area on the falls and a yellow beard.

Uses & Benefits:

Vivid blue flowers add striking color to garden beds and borders.

Ideal for cut flowers with a fragrant appeal.

Supports pollinators like bees with nectar-rich blooms.

SpeciesIris x germanicaGerman Iris

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

36 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Low

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Many years with proper division

Native To

Southern Europe / Mediterranean region

Toxicity

Toxic if ingested; can cause skin irritation

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck rhizomes 2 inches deep in well-draining soil in early spring.
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not soggy during active growth.
Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer in early spring and after blooming.
Divide clumps every 3-4 years in late summer or early fall for healthy growth.
Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Stake tall varieties if needed to prevent toppling during storms.

Pro Tip

Plant iris rhizomes in full sun for vibrant blooms and strong growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water deeply during dry spells 🌱
Remove faded flowers to encourage more blooms
Apply a light layer of mulch annually

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent rhizome rot ❌
Don’t bury rhizomes too deep
Refrain from fertilizing late in the season

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Deadhead
Divide
Fertilize
Spring Cleanup
Winter Prep

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Perennial border with vibrant blue flowersRock garden accent with striking colorCut flower for fresh bouquets

Companion Plants

Daylilies SalviaLavender Sedum Coreopsis

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Yaquina Blue Iris questions

What zones can Yaquina Blue Iris grow in?

Yaquina Blue Iris is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Yaquina Blue Iris deer resistant?

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

When does Yaquina Blue Iris bloom?

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

Does Yaquina Blue Iris need full sun?

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

Is Yaquina Blue Iris drought tolerant?

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