Long-Scape Iris

Iris delavayi

Native to:
China

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Taxonomy

Division:
Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
Family:
Iridaceae
Genus:
Iris
Species:
Iris delavayi
USDA Symbol:
IRDE2

Growth Characteristics

Height:
150 cm
Light Requirements:
Full Sun
Drought Tolerance:
Low
Bloom Months:
jun,jul
Bloom Colors:
purple, blue, violet, white

Keystone Species Ranking

Caterpillar Keystone:
★★☆☆☆ Butterfly & moth species supported by this genus (NWF)

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:
bees, butterflies
Deer Resistant:
Yes

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:
rich, well-drained loamy soil
pH:
5.5 - 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Drainage:
excellent drainage required
Moisture:
consistently moist
Notes:
prefers wetland or marshy areas

Propagation & Germination

Stratification:
Cold/moist stratification required — 60–90 days
Germination Time:
30–180 days
Notes:
Germination can be slow and erratic. Fresh seed germinates best; cold stratification improves rates.

The above propagation data sourced from Claude AI

ORGHPS Germination Guide: Sow at 4°C for 3 months, then place @ 20°C for 3 months. * soak and rinse in clean water daily x 4 weeks

Source: Ontario Rock Garden & Hardy Plant Society