Oregon Iris (Iris tenax)

This gorgeous native Iris blooms May-June with a large flower display (Photo of Iris in bloom en masse is a single plant). Depending on your elevation and garden's micro-climate this Iris will be semi-deciduous. This is how it behaves in my garden. Throughout the winter it has green leaf spikes, even covered in snow.

I have been experimenting with planting seedlings along our gravel driveway. Both directly in the gravel and in gravel mixed with soil. With regular biweekly watering to help them get established through the summer it appears they are tough enough to handle rock garden life as well as clay, loam, forest duff etc.

Once established Oregon Iris doesn't want any summer water. Afternoon shade is best in hot sites. Unlike their European relatives, Oregon Iris does not divide well. It is possible to kill your plant if you try.

Each seed packet contains 30 seeds and germination instructions are included.

Oregon Iris at a glance

• Ave. growth dimensions - 1 -1.5 ft tall x 1 - 2 ft wide
• Dormancy - Winter deciduous/ semi-deciduous
• Plant type - Perennial herb
• Sun - Full sun - part shade
• Water - Dry - moist well draining
• Flowering time - March - July
• Soil preference - Sandy, loamy, rocky, draining clay