Bare Root Dwarf Crested Iris (Iris cristata)

Hardy, herbaceous spring-flowering North American perennial
Description: Small, pale blue flowers appear just above gracefully bending pale green leaves.
Habit: Grows 6-8” high and up to 12” wide
Culture: Prefers well drained soil and woodland shade; tolerates dry conditions
Hardiness: Cold hardy to USDA Zones 4 through 8
Jefferson-documented

This charming woodland iris is native to the eastern North American deciduous forest where it often grows on rocky slopes. Peter Collinson, an English patron and regular correspondent of John Custis from Williamsburg and the Bartrams of Philadelphia, grew this plant from roots sent to him during the mid-18th century. In 1766 Jefferson began his Garden Book with observations of wildflowers along the Rivanna River, including the “Dwarf flag” flowering May 4th “in our woods.” Dwarf Crested Iris spreads slowly creating large mats of handsome light green foliage that deer do not find attractive. A white form, Iris cristata ‘Alba’, also occurs in the wild.

This plant will ship bare root. Grade: #1

Bare root planting tips:

~ If you can't plant immediately, store your plant in a cool location and keep the roots moist or pot in a container with a nursery potting mix from your local garden center.
~ Before planting, let the roots soak for several hours as you prepare the site. You'll want to dig a large enough hole so the root mass can spread out and the plant is at the same soil level as when it was growing in the nursery.
~ Once planted, water it in well and wait a month before fertilizing. Mulching will help to maintain moisture and raise soil temperatures for faster growth.