Regina Iris / Bearded Iris (Iris germanica)

Regina Iris (Bearded Iris) is a classic, spring-blooming perennial prized for its large, ruffled blooms and elegant, upright foliage. Bearded Irises are known for the fuzzy “beard” on the falls (the lower petals) and come in many colors depending on the cultivar. They’re excellent for sunny borders and cut-flower gardens, and they’re very low maintenance once established.

Ideal for: sunny landscape borders, cottage gardens, cut-flower gardens, and gardeners who want reliable spring color.

🌿 Plant Features

Botanical Name: Iris germanica
Common Name: Bearded Iris, German Iris, Regina Iris (trade/cultivar name varies by grower)
Plant Type: Hardy perennial (rhizomatous)
Foliage: Upright, sword-like leaves; forms clumps
Blooms: Large, showy, often fragrant flowers (color depends on cultivar)
Growth Habit: Clumping; spreads via rhizomes and can be divided
Mature Size:

Typically 18–36 in. tall and 12–24 in. wide (varies by cultivar)
Bloom Season: Spring (some cultivars rebloom in late summer/fall)
USDA Zones: 3–9 (varies slightly by cultivar)

🪴 Care & Maintenance Guide

🌞 Light

Best: Full sun (6+ hours daily) for best blooms
Tolerates: Light partial shade (fewer blooms)

💧 Watering

Water regularly during establishment
Once established: drought tolerant
Avoid soggy soil—rhizomes can rot in wet conditions

🪨 Soil

Well-draining soil is essential
Prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil
Tip: Plant rhizomes shallow with the top exposed or barely covered (helps prevent rot)

🌡️ Temperature

Cold hardy (excellent perennial for seasonal climates)
Good airflow helps prevent disease

🌿 Fertilization

Feed in early spring and again after flowering (optional)
Use a low-nitrogen fertilizer (too much nitrogen = more leaves, fewer blooms)

✂️ Pruning & Maintenance

Remove spent blooms and flower stalks after flowering
Trim foliage back in late fall (in cold climates)
Divide clumps every 3–4 years for best flowering and vigor

⚠️ Common Issues

Few blooms: too much shade, overcrowding, or too much nitrogen
Soft rhizomes: overwatering/poor drainage (rot)
Leaf spot/borers: remove affected foliage and maintain airflow

📦 What You’ll Receive

One healthy Regina Iris (Iris germanica) in a nursery pot (or rhizome-based plant depending on your inventory)
Natural variations in bloom color, height, and timing are normal (cultivar dependent)
Minor cosmetic foliage marks may occur from normal handling

✅ Acclimation Tip

After delivery, place in full sun (or gradually increase sun over 2–4 days). If transplanting outdoors, choose a well-draining spot and avoid burying the rhizome too deeply.