Iris cristata

Also Known As

Crested Iris

Plant type

perennial

size

H: 4"-5"
W: 12"-20"

planting zones

6a-10b

More Options

Iris cristata plant details

Iris cristata is a broadleaf deciduous perennial with green foliage. In spring lavender and purple flowers emerge. Attracts hummingbirds. Grows well with sun - mostly sun and even moisture water. Does well in well-drained soil. A good option if you're seeking something verticillium wilt resistant.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Iris cristata

Plant type: perennial
Plant family: iridaceae
Foliage: deciduous green
Mature size: 12 IN - 20 IN - wide, 4 IN - 5 IN - tall
Flowers: lavender and purple blooms in spring
Uses: cutting garden, edging plant, fragrant, rock garden

GROWING CONDITIONS for Iris cristata

USDA Zones: 6a - 10b
Sun exposure: sun - mostly sun
Watering frequency: even moisture
Resistant to: deer and rabbit, verticillium wilt
Soil needs: well-drained

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

The native "Crested Iris" forms a tight mass of ground covering Iris foliage in part sun to full shade. I've never seen a plant with such variable colored flowers. From light pale blue to the deepest almost purple color. Blooms last quite a while on short (3"-6") plants. Several named cultivars exist, but our selections provide a range of the entire spectrum of available colors.

By: Sunshine Farm and Gardens

The dwarf crested iris from the eastern part of the U.S. We have had this pretty ground cover since the late 60’s. This iris blooms in May with 3-4” blue flowers. All summer the foliage will be attractive and will only get to 6”.

By: Gossler Farms

A North American native with lavender-blue flowers dotted with a patch of white that is great along the woodland path or in front of shrubs. Divide every other year and protect from slugs when foliage is first emerging.

By: Phoenix Perennials and Specialty Plants Ltd.

Cute dwarf Iris with multitudes of the rarest crumpled powder blue flowers crested with gold on 6" stems; it will form large mats quickly. This easy to grow species has a lot more charm than the bearded monstrosities. ZONE 4