Iris reticulata
Iris reticulata
One of the earliest bulbs to flower in UK gardens, producing miniature iris blooms in vivid violet-blue with orange markings from February. Only 10-15cm tall but incredibly colourful. Perfect for rock gardens, troughs, and the front of borders. Numerous cultivars available in blue, purple, and reddish shades.
Where to plant
Best aspect
Border position
When to plant and expect flowers
Plant
Flowers
How to grow iris reticulata
Plant 8cm deep in autumn in very well-drained soil. Excellent in raised beds, troughs, and gravel gardens. Can split into non-flowering bulblets after the first year — feeding with tomato fertiliser helps. Many named cultivars: 'Harmony' (blue), 'J.S. Dijt' (purple), 'Katharine Hodgkin' (pale blue).
Soil requirements
Soil type
sand, loam, chalk
Moisture
well drained
pH
neutral, alkaline
Aftercare
Allow foliage to die back naturally after flowering. Remove spent flower heads to prevent self-seeding.
Propagation
- Offsets in autumn
- Seed
Wildlife value
Toxicity
Mildly toxic. Contains irisin compounds causing gastrointestinal upset if ingested.
Common problems
- Ink disease (fungal)
- Bulbs splitting into non-flowering offsets
- Rot in wet soil
Similar bulbs to grow
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