Purple Iris Iris sibirica 25 Seeds

The Purple Iris, Iris sibirica, features bold purple flag-like flowers with yellow overtones and white centers at the ends of the stems in late spring. It is an herbaceous perennial with tall flower stalks held atop a low mound of foliage. Arching, narrow, grass-like, linear, blue-green leaves form a vase-shaped foliage clump to 2’ tall. Flowering stems rise above the foliage to 3’ tall in May-June, each stem bearing 2-5 purple flowers. After bloom, the foliage clump will retain its blue-green color into the fall, often displaying showy leaves reminiscent of some ornamental grasses. Its relatively fine texture sets it apart from other garden plants with less refined foliage. When grown in masses or used as a bedding plant, individual plants should be spaced approximately 18 inches apart. It has a medium growth rate. This plant does best in full sun to partial shade. It prefers to grow in average to moist conditions, and shouldn't be allowed to dry out. It is not particular as to soil type or pH. It is somewhat tolerant of urban pollution. It is native to Eurasia from Central Europe to northeastern Turkey and southeastern Russia. It is also known as the Siberian Iris.

It is easily grown in moist, fertile, humusy, organically rich, neutral to slightly acidic, medium moisture, well-drained soils in full sun to part shade. Siberian iris is an adaptable plant which tolerates a wide range of soils, including boggy ones, but will generally perform well in average garden soils. Garden Uses. Mixes well with other perennials in borders. Also effective when planted along a slope or hillside, along a path or along a stream or pond margin. A good moisture-loving plant for moist garden areas. Massed plantings and well-placed specimens can enhance almost any setting, and the foliage provides lasting beauty after bloom. Excellent cut flower, but usually lasts only two days. Zones 3-8.

Growing Instructions

The seeds have a period of dormancy. They can be planted outdoors in the fall or winter for spring germination or they can be cold stratified to simulate winter conditions and to break their dormancy at any time of the year.

1. Soak the seeds in water for 24 hours.
2. Put the mixture in a ziplock bag.
3. Put the bag in the refrigerator and leave it there for 2-3 months.
4. The seeds like rich, moist soil. Put some potting soil in a container.
5. Sow the seeds ½ inch deep.
6. Water the seeds.
7. When the seedlings are a few inches tall, they can be transplanted.