Neomarica caerulea (Walking Iris)

Native to Brazil, Neomarica caerulea (Walking Iris) is a rhizomatous perennial forming dense upright clumps of sword-shaped, stiff, dark green leaves. In late spring to summer (early spring into fall in mild climates), branching flower stems carry a succession of ravishing blue iris-like flowers, 3-4 in. across (7-10 cm). They are adorned with intricately banded centers in yellow, white and cinnamon. The flowers last only one day but occur in waves of 4-6 weeks, providing a long-lasting color show. As the flowers fade, new Walking Iris plants (plantlets) form at the ends of the flowering stems. They eventually become large and heavy enough to bend the stem and take root when they make contact with the ground. Fast-growing, Walking iris can spread quickly to form dense colonies. Evergreen in mild areas.

• Grow up to 2-3 ft. tall (60-90 cm) and 3-5 ft. wide (90-150 cm).
• Easy to grow, this plant performs best in part shade, in moist, acidic, well-drained soils. Water the plants regularly to keep the soil uniformly moist. Apply a balanced garden plant fertilizer in spring, summer and early fall.
• No serious insect or disease problems.
• This species propagates by seed, but also by rhizomes and plantlets. Deadhead flowering stems to remove both developing seeds and developing plantlets to prevent undesired spread.
• Currently, Neomarica caerulea is listed as invasive in Cuba.
• Native to Brazil.