Mary Frances Tall Bearded Iris
Iris germanica 'Mary Frances'
Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
38 inches
Width
18 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Low to moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Hybrid origin
Toxicity
Parts are toxic if ingested
The Story
Plant Bio
'Mary Frances' is a classic Tall Bearded Iris, prized for its large, ruffled, orchid-lavender flowers and vigorous growth. It is a repeat bloomer in some climates. This award-winning cultivar (Dykes Medal, 1979) is known for its beautiful form, delicate fragrance, and excellent performance in the garden.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck rhizomes 2 inches deep in well-draining soil.
- Water regularly during the first growing season.
- Plant in full sun for optimal blooms.
- Apply balanced fertilizer in early spring.
- Divide clumps every 3-4 years for best performance.
- Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Pro Tip
Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot, especially in wet climates.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water during dry spells 🌱
- Fertilize in early spring
- Remove spent flowers to encourage rebloom
Don't
- Avoid overwatering ❌
- Don’t plant too deep
- Refrain from neglecting dividing
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
Mary Frances Tall Bearded Iris questions
What zones can Mary Frances Tall Bearded Iris grow in?
Mary Frances Tall Bearded Iris is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Mary Frances Tall Bearded Iris deer resistant?
Yes — Mary Frances Tall Bearded Iris is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Mary Frances Tall Bearded Iris bloom?
Mary Frances 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 Mary Frances Tall Bearded Iris need full sun?
Mary Frances Tall Bearded Iris does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Mary Frances Tall Bearded Iris drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Mary Frances Tall Bearded Iris handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Iris to compare
German Iris Bearded Iris
Iris germanica 'Mix'
Celebration Song Iris
Iris tenuissima 'Celebration Song'
Siberian Iris 'Paprikash'
Iris x hybrida 'Paprikash'
Poem of Ecstasy German Iris
Iris x germanica 'Poem Of Ecstasy'
Dutch Iris Mix
Iris hollandica 'Mix'
Baboon Bottom Bearded Iris
Iris germanica 'Baboon Bottom Bearded'
Keep exploring
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Grow Mary Frances Tall Bearded 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.
