Iris, Dwarf violet

Iris verna

$16.00 Sold out

1 Gallon | Hardiness Zones 6-9

This dwarf iris with blue to purple flowers in spring is native to the southeastern U.S. with outliers in surrounding states. It is sometimes confused with Iris cristata but has more upright narrower leaves and grows in drier habitats, often in pine woods. It is a charming little iris for the woodland edge where it will form colonies if the site conditons suit it.

Photo courtesy of Bob Gutowski

Plant Specs
  • Zones: 6 - 9
  • Sun: Part Shade and Full Shade
  • Soil: Well-drained and Acid
  • Height at Maturity: 6 - 8 Inches
  • Spread at Maturity: 6 - 8 Inches
  • Growth Rate: Moderate

Deciduous

Flower/Foliage

Foliage: The leaves are narrow, grass-like, and bright green, forming a compact clump.

Flowers: Produces small, delicate violet-blue flowers with a yellow or white signal in early spring. The blooms are held close to the ground, often appearing just above the foliage.

Care Info

Read full care instruction manual here.

Light Requirements: Prefers partial shade to full shade. Iris verna thrives in woodland settings where it receives dappled sunlight or partial shade. While it can tolerate some direct sunlight, it is best suited to areas with filtered light, especially in hotter climates, to prevent leaf scorch and to mimic its natural habitat.

Soil Requirements: Prefers well-draining, acidic soil. This iris grows best in sandy or loamy soils with a slightly acidic pH range (4.5-6.0). It is well-adapted to the pine forests and sandy soils of the southeastern United States, so replicating these conditions will lead to the healthiest growth. The soil should be rich in organic matter, so adding compost or pine bark mulch can improve soil structure and fertility.

Watering: Requires regular watering, especially during dry periods. Iris verna prefers consistently moist soil, particularly during its growing season in spring. However, it does not tolerate waterlogged conditions, so ensure good drainage. During its dormancy in the summer, reduce watering but do not allow the soil to dry out completely.

Temperature and Humidity: Hardy in USDA zones 5-9. Iris verna is well-suited to temperate climates and can tolerate cold winters, making it ideal for gardens in both northern and southern regions of the United States. It prefers moderate to high humidity, which aligns with its natural woodland habitat.

Fertilization: Apply a light, balanced fertilizer in early spring to encourage healthy growth and flowering. Iris verna typically does not require heavy feeding, and over-fertilization should be avoided as it can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of blooms. A light application of compost or leaf mold in the fall can also help improve soil fertility.

Pruning: Prune lightly after flowering to remove spent blooms and tidy up the plant. Removing dead or damaged leaves helps maintain the plant's appearance and prevents the spread of diseases. Since this iris has a compact growth habit, minimal pruning is generally needed. Avoid cutting back the foliage in summer, as the leaves help the plant store energy for the next growing season.

Pests and Problems: Generally pest-resistant but may occasionally be affected by slugs, snails, or fungal diseases such as leaf spot. Ensuring good air circulation around the plant and avoiding overhead watering can help prevent fungal issues. If pests are detected, treat with appropriate measures such as slug bait or fungicides.

Pickup currently unavailable at Aiken Nursery

Grown in Aiken, South Carolina

At Woodlanders, we are committed to quality.

All our plant material is carefully propagated, grown, and nurtured at our humble nursery in Aiken, South Carolina.

Learn more about Woodlanders here.

Here’s a closer look at how we produce our plants:
from rooting to shipping, our top priority is ensuring you receive healthy, thriving plants for your garden’s success.

The majority of our plants are carefully cultivated from rooted cuttings, while we also utilize propagation methods such as seed, air layering, and grafting, thoughtfully chosen to suit each plant’s unique needs.

Our plants are cultivated using sustainable practices, including organic soil blends and eco-friendly pest management, ensuring they thrive while minimizing environmental impact.

We are proud to contribute to local biodiversity through ongoing donations to the Aiken Arboretum and support for local wildlife conservation efforts, helping to preserve and enhance our community’s natural ecosystems.

Frequently Asked Questions

What to expect upon delivery

All our plants are sold in 1-gallon sizes, though the height of each plant can vary depending on its growth rate and seasonality, typically ranging from 1/2 to 2.5 feet.

Each plant is carefully packaged with its roots enclosed in a secure plastic bag containing moist soil, forming a compact root ball. To ensure safe transport, the box is padded with recycled newspaper, providing both stability and eco-friendly protection from weather during shipping.

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Review our full return policy information on our SHIPPING AND RETURNS POLICY page.

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