Also known as Bulbous Iris · Stânjenel
Spanish Iris (Iris xiphium) is a bulbous perennial prized for its vibrant, elegant flowers in shades of blue, purple, white, and yellow, blooming in late spring to early
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Requires at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day for best flowering.
Moderate to High during growth, Low during dormancy
75% intensity
Keep soil moist during active growth, allow to dry out for dormancy.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers temperatures between 18-25°C during the growing season and requires a cool, dry period for dormancy.
Low
25% intensity
Feed annually in spring with a balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Spanish Irises prefer consistently moist soil during their active growth and flowering period. Water deeply when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry.
Reduce watering significantly once the foliage begins to yellow and die back in late summer, allowing the bulbs to dry out for dormancy.
After flowering, allow the flower stalks to remain until they naturally yellow and wither. This allows the plant to store energy in its bulbs. Once foliage has completely died back, cut it to the ground.
Remove any dead or damaged leaves during the growing season.
Spanish Irises are primarily propagated by dividing the clumps of bulbs in late summer or early autumn when they are dormant. Gently separate the offsets (smaller bulbs) from the main bulb.
Replant them immediately at the correct depth.
Repotting is typically done when dividing clumps, usually every 3-4 years to prevent overcrowding. Use a well-draining potting mix.
Ensure the bulbs are planted at the correct depth, with the tip just below the soil surface. Repot in late summer or early autumn.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Spanish Iris (Iris xiphium)
Where Spanish Iris (Iris xiphium) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Iridaceae |
| Genus | Iris |
| Species | Iris xiphium |
Similar in genus Iris
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
