Iris germanica aka German Iris

Taxonomy ID: 9219

Genus Iris Family Iridaceae Order Asparagales Class Liliopsida Phylum Tracheophyta
Iris germanica, also known as the bearded iris or German bearded iris, is a rhizomatous perennial that blooms in mid to late spring. It can grow up to 120 cm tall and 30 cm wide, with roots that can reach up to 10 cm deep. This species belongs to a group of hybrids and includes varieties such as I. × g. var. florentina. With hundreds of hybrids available, this plant comes in almost every color except bright scarlet. In addition to its ornamental value, the plant also has medicinal uses. The rare houseplant known as Orris-root is a type of Iris germanica that is relatively easy to grow, provided it receives regular watering and is placed in direct light within a foot of a window.

Common names

German Iris, Bearded Iris, Flags, Orris Root, German Bearded Iris

More information about German Iris

How difficult is it to take care of German Iris

Caring for German Iris is a breeze, as it is highly adaptable and forgiving to minor neglect.

What is the growth pattern and size of German Iris?

New growth will sprout from the top of the German Iris as it grows vertically.

What is the region of origin of German Iris

German Iris’s native range is The original habitat is obscure, it is probably of hybrid origin.

What are the water needs for German Iris

German Iris should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

What is the right soil for German Iris

Its needs are relatively simple, but one of the most important is making sure its soil is adequately moist. Without proper moisture, the plant can suffer from wilting and stunted growth. To ensure your German Iris is healthy, you must choose a potting soil that retains moisture.

Look for a soil with good drainage to prevent root rot, but also make sure it contains plenty of organic matter. Coco coir and sphagnum moss are both excellent ingredients for retaining moisture and providing the #self.names with the nutrients it needs to thrive. If you can find a soil that has a combination of these ingredients, your #self.names will thank you with beautiful blooms.

What is the sunlight requirement for German Iris

To ensure optimal growth, the German Iris prefers bright indirect light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

How to fertilize German Iris

Repotting the German Iris should be done either when it has doubled in size or on a yearly basis, whichever occurs sooner. Fresh potting soil with all the required nutrients, refreshed annually, will provide the plant with all the necessary sustenance, making the use of fertilizer unnecessary. Keep in mind that plants receive their energy from the sun, not fertilizer.

Is German Iris toxic to humans/pets?

German Iris is poisonous if ingested. We suggest keeping this plant out of reach if you have children, cats, or dogs in the home.

What seasonal care does German Iris need?

During the cold period, it is common for German Iris to go dormant, resulting in a slowdown of growth. To accommodate this, waterings should be spaced out more.

More info:
Wikipedia • GBIF

Report a problem • Suggest Edit

Ploi app icon Ploi app icon

About Ploi

Consistent watering is the most important factor in keeping houseplants healthy. Ploi, a 4.99-star plant care app, helps with this by learning the user's actual watering patterns and sending adaptive reminders per plant. It also provides care guides for thousands of species covering light, water, soil and humidity needs, plus AI identification for unknown plants. Available free on iOS, Android and web.

App Store Google Play

More Species in Iris Genus

Iris chrysophylla Yellow Leaf Iris

Iris sanguinea Bloodred Iris

Iris purdyi Purdy's Iris

Iris hollandica Dutch Iris

Iris pumila Dwarf Iris

Iris hartwegii Sierra Iris

Iris pallida Sweet Iris

Iris verna Dwarf Iris

Iris tuberosa Snake's Head Iris

Iris humilis Iris Humilis