Iris louisiana 'Colorific' - Louisiana Iris, Pond Marginal Plant
Iris louisiana 'Colorific' - Louisiana Iris, Pond Marginal Plant
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Iris 'Colorific' is a Louisiana iris hybrid, bred by Joseph Mertzweiller and introduced in 1979. 'Iris louisiana' is a group name rather than a true species. Its bicoloured flowers have white standards with a pale lavender flush above reddish-purple falls with darker veins and a small yellow crest, over sword-shaped, grey-green leaves.
'Colorific' at a glance
| Botanical name | Iris 'Colorific' (Louisiana iris hybrid) |
|---|---|
| Common name | Louisiana iris |
| Plant type | Clump-forming iris; dies back in winter |
| Height and spread | About 80–90 cm tall in flower, up to 50 cm wide |
| Flowers | White standards flushed pale lavender, reddish-purple falls with darker veins and a small yellow crest; May and June (figure for Louisiana irises in general) |
| Position | Full sun or part shade |
| Soil | Deep, humus-rich, neutral to acid soil that stays moist or wet |
| Pond depth | 0–10 cm of water over the crown (figure for Louisiana irises in general) |
| Hardiness | Hardy; not rated by the RHS (Louisiana irises are rated H4 to H7) |
| Native to | Garden hybrid from the USA (not UK native) |
Can it grow in water?
Yes. The RHS says Louisiana irises thrive at pond and stream margins. No depth has been published for 'Colorific' itself; 0–10 cm of water is the figure given for other Louisiana irises.
How to plant and care for it
Plant in deep, humus-rich, neutral to acid soil in full sun or part shade. Watch for slugs, snails and thrips.
Is it poisonous?
Yes. Irises are harmful if eaten by people or pets, so wear gloves when handling it.
Which size should I buy?
Bare-root plants (7 cm, 9 cm, 1 litre and 3 litre) arrive without a pot or compost and are the most economical way to plant a group. Potted plants (9 cm, 1 litre and 3 litre) arrive growing in our peat-free compost and give a faster display. Packs of 3 come in 7 cm, 9 cm, 1 litre and 3 litre bare-root sizes and cost less per plant. The 2x Pot & Compost option is two plants supplied with pots and compost.
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