By selecting and planting several different iris species, gardeners can enjoy blooming irises from April through July. Bearded irises are available in a wide range of colors, including white, yellow, orange, pink, wine-red, blue and purple. The flowers of many varieties possess various combinations or blends of these colors. Bearded irises bloom in early to late spring. Gardeners can choose from several thousand named varieties.
Bearded irises perform best in well-drained soils in full sun.
To avoid problems in poorly drained soils, plant bearded irises in raised beds. They are excellent plants for perennial beds and borders. Bearded irises are hardy in USDA Hardiness Zones 3 to 10. While bearded irises are widely grown, they are not trouble-free. Bearded irises quickly become overcrowded, resulting in fewer flowers.