Alphabetical Plant Listing

Iris douglasiana (Douglas Iris)

Douglas Iris, Mountain Iris, Western Iris


Iris douglasiana (Douglas Iris) is a slowly spreading rhizomatous evergreen perennial forming clumps of sword-shaped, arching, dark green leaves. Branched stems rise from the clumps in spring, each of them boasting usually blue flowers, 3 in. across (7 cm), although the flowers can be variable in color, ranging from pale cream to yellow to reddish purple. Very handsome in and out of bloom, Douglas Iris truly enjoys meadow settings. Perfect for tucking into rock gardens or to edge woodland borders. Native to coastal areas from Santa Barbara into Oregon, Douglas Iris adds color to shady garden spots. Growing in full sun along the immediate coast, it is also found growing in the light shade of open woods and forest edges.

  • Grows up to 1-2 ft. tall (30-60 cm) and 2-4 ft. wide (60-120 cm). Will self-sow and form large clumps.
  • Performs best in full sun to part shade in heavy soils with organic matter. Water every 2-4 weeks in summer if not planted next to a creek or in a naturally wet area. More drought tolerant near the coast as a result of the cooler temperatures and fog.
  • Increase by seed (early fall) or rhizome divisions (late fall or early spring).
  • Deer resistant.
  • All parts may cause discomfort if ingested. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling.
  • Toxic to dogs, toxic to cats, toxic to horses.
  • Native from the coastal regions of Northern and Central California and southern Oregon.

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Requirements

Hardiness 7 – 9
Heat Zones 7 – 9
Climate Zones 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24
Plant Type Perennials
Plant Family Iris - Other
Exposure Full Sun, Partial Sun
Season of Interest Spring (Early,Mid,Late)
Height 1' – 2' (30cm – 60cm)
Spread 2' – 4' (60cm – 120cm)
Spacing 48" (120cm)
Water Needs Low
Maintenance Low
Soil Type Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH Acid, Neutral
Soil Drainage Well-Drained
Characteristics Showy, Evergreen
Native Plants United States, California, Pacific Northwest, Oregon
Tolerance Deer
Attracts Butterflies
Garden Uses Ground Covers
Garden Styles Coastal Garden, Gravel and Rock Garden, Informal and Cottage, Mediterranean Garden

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Natasha de Vere & Col Ford, Flickr

While every effort has been made to describe these plants accurately, please keep in mind that height, bloom time, and color may differ in various climates. The description of these plants has been written based on numerous outside resources.


Requirements

Hardiness 7 – 9
Heat Zones 7 – 9
Climate Zones 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24
Plant Type Perennials
Plant Family Iris - Other
Exposure Full Sun, Partial Sun
Season of Interest Spring (Early,Mid,Late)
Height 1' – 2' (30cm – 60cm)
Spread 2' – 4' (60cm – 120cm)
Spacing 48" (120cm)
Water Needs Low
Maintenance Low
Soil Type Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH Acid, Neutral
Soil Drainage Well-Drained
Characteristics Showy, Evergreen
Native Plants United States, California, Pacific Northwest, Oregon
Tolerance Deer
Attracts Butterflies
Garden Uses Ground Covers
Garden Styles Coastal Garden, Gravel and Rock Garden, Informal and Cottage, Mediterranean Garden

Guides with Iris - Other

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