This knee high, native variety does well in coastal environments, but also thrives elsewhere with some attention; attractive lavender and purple blooms with yellow signals over clumping green foliage; great as a low groundcover. Douglas Iris is an herbaceous perennial with an upright spreading habit of growth. Its relatively fine texture sets it apart from other garden plants with less refined foliage.
This plant will require occasional maintenance and upkeep, and should be cut back in late fall in preparation for winter. Deer don't particularly care for this plant and will usually leave it alone in favor of tastier treats. Gardeners should be aware of the following characteristic(s) that may warrant special consideration; Insects.
Douglas Iris features showy lavender flag-like flowers with purple overtones and a yellow blotch at the ends of the stems from early to late spring. The flowers are excellent for cutting. Its sword-like leaves remain dark green in colour throughout the season.
Douglas Iris will grow to be about 16 inches tall at maturity extending to 24 inches tall with the flowers, with a spread of 3 feet. When grown in masses or used as a bedding plant, individual plants should be spaced approximately 30 inches apart. It grows at a medium rate, and under ideal conditions can be expected to live for approximately 10 years. As an herbaceous perennial, this plant will usually die back to the crown each winter, and will regrow from the base each spring. Be careful not to disturb the crown in late winter when it may not be readily seen!
