German Iris
Iris germanica 'Savannah Sunset'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
38 inches
Width
24 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Low
Humidity
Average garden humidity
Lifespan
Many years with proper division
Native To
Cultivated hybrid
Toxicity
Toxic if ingested
The Story
Plant Bio
Iris germanica 'Savannah Sunset' is a perennial rhizomatous plant distinguished by its tall, elegant flowering stems and richly colored, ruffled flowers in shades of orange and red, complemented by sword-shaped foliage. This cultivar is celebrated for its vibrant, sunset-inspired flower coloration and its robust growth habit, making it a striking addition to perennial borders and cut flower arrangements.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck rhizomes 2 inches deep in well-drained soil.
- Water thoroughly after planting and keep soil moist.
- Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring.
- Divide clumps every 3-4 years in late summer or early fall.
- Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Remove spent flowers to encourage continued blooming.
Pro Tip
Plant in well-drained soil with full sun for best blooms.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly during active growth 🌱
- Fertilize in early spring with a balanced fertilizer
- Remove dead foliage to keep plants tidy
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent rhizome rot ❌
- Don’t plant too deeply, keep rhizomes close to surface
- Refrain from fertilizing late in the season
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
German Iris questions
What zones can German Iris grow in?
German 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 German Iris deer resistant?
Yes — German Iris is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does German Iris bloom?
German 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 German Iris need full sun?
German Iris does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is German Iris drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), German Iris handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
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Keep exploring
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Grow German Iris with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
