Iris lactea
white-flowered iris
A variable perennial, to around 40cm high, with linear, finely ribbed, grey-green leaves, sometimes flushed with purple at the base. Flowers are usually pale violet blue, or part white or pale yellow, often with narrow falls, and are sometimes produced while the leaves are still relatively short
Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Purple Blue White Yellow | Green Grey Silver | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | ||||
| Autumn | ||||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H7Botanical details
- Family
- Iridaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Potentially harmful
- Harmful if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. Pets: Harmful if eaten. For further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
- Genus
Iris may be rhizomatous or bulbous perennials, with narrow leaves and erect stems bearing flowers with 3 large spreading or pendent fall petals, alternating with 3 erect, often smaller, standard petals, in late winter, spring or early summer
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Tepm. Asia W Himalaya
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in well-drained, deep, fertile soil that does not dry out. Will tolerate part shade but flowering is best in full sun
Propagation
Propagate by seed or by division, see dividing iris for more detailed advice. Plants raised from seed may take some years to flower
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- City and courtyard gardens
- Cottage and informal garden
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
Remove spent flower stems in summer, and any dying foliage in autumn
Pests
Diseases
May be susceptible to aphid-borne viruses, bacterial soft rot and grey moulds; see Iris diseases
Get involved
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