Providing a bright splash of colour in late winter and early spring, often when there is little else in bloom, these low-growing iris are valuable additions to pots, windowboxes, alpine beds and rockeries. They will also look very sweet when popping up at the front of a sunny border. ‘Pauline’ has mauve-purple petals and darker burgundy-purple falls each frosted with an icing-sugar signal to guide pollinating insects to the heart of the flower.
How to care for Iris Pauline (Reticulata):
Plant Iris reticulata bulbs in autumn, around 8-10cm (3-4in) deep and 8-10cm (3-4in) apart, in well-drained soil and a sunny position. They thrive rock gardens, gravel areas, or pots where excess moisture can drain freely. Water after planting and allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings, as the bulbs dislike sitting wet.
For plants supplied in 9cm pots, simply plant out at the same depth as they are in the pot once the risk of hard frost has passed, or display them in containers for early colour. Choose a bright, sunny spot and ensure the compost drains well.
After flowering, allow the leaves to die back naturally so the bulbs can store energy for next year. Once the foliage has withered, reduce watering and keep the soil on the dry side through summer dormancy. In pots, you can move the containers to a sheltered, dry spot over summer or lift and store the bulbs until autumn replanting.
For plants supplied in 9cm pots, simply plant out at the same depth as they are in the pot once the risk of hard frost has passed, or display them in containers for early colour. Choose a bright, sunny spot and ensure the compost drains well.
After flowering, allow the leaves to die back naturally so the bulbs can store energy for next year. Once the foliage has withered, reduce watering and keep the soil on the dry side through summer dormancy. In pots, you can move the containers to a sheltered, dry spot over summer or lift and store the bulbs until autumn replanting.
Flowering period:
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Eventual height:
0.15m
Eventual spread:
0.1m
Position:
Full sun
Rate of growth:
Average
Soil:
Humus-rich, moist, well-drained acid soil or ericaceous compost
Hardiness:
Fully hardy
-
This bulb dies back after flowering each year and enters a period of rest ahead of regrowth the following season.
-
Humans/Pets: Harmful if eaten
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£25.00
£0.33 each
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