Crested Iris

Iris cristata

$16.00

1 Gallon | Hardiness Zones 5-9

Iris cristata is a dwarf woodland Iris found in interior of eastern U.S. It has rather broad leaf blades arranged in typical Iris fans. The lovely 1 1/2 to 2 inch blue flowers are borne on stems only a few inches high in spring. It is a great little plant for the moist, fertile, shady or semi-shady woodland garden.

Photo courtesy of Steven Faucette

Plant Specs
  • Zones: 5 - 9
  • Sun: Part Shade and Full Shade
  • Soil: Moist, Fertile, and Well-drained
  • Height at Maturity: 6 - 8 Inches
  • Spread at Maturity: 10 - 12 Inches
  • Growth Rate: Moderate

Deciduous

Flower/Foliage

Foliage: The leaves are sword-shaped, bright green, and form a dense, ground-hugging mat.

Flowers: Produces small, delicate, pale blue to deep violet flowers with white or yellow crests, typically in mid to late spring. The blooms are 1-2 inches across and are borne on short stems just above the foliage.

Blue-violet

Care Info

Read full care instruction manual here.

Light Requirements: Prefers partial shade to full shade. Iris cristata thrives in shaded or partially shaded environments, making it ideal for woodland gardens or shaded borders. It can tolerate full sun, particularly in cooler climates, but in hotter regions, it is best to provide protection from the intense afternoon sun to prevent leaf scorch.

Soil Requirements: Prefers moist, well-draining, acidic to neutral soil. This iris grows well in rich, loamy soils with a pH range of 5.5-7.0. It is naturally found in forested areas with well-drained, humus-rich soil, so incorporating organic matter, such as compost or leaf mold, will help mimic its natural habitat and support healthy growth.

Watering: Requires regular watering, especially during dry periods. Iris cristata prefers consistently moist soil, particularly during the growing season. However, it should not be waterlogged, as overly wet conditions can lead to root rot. Mulching around the base of the plant helps retain moisture and regulate soil temperature, which is particularly important in warmer climates.

Temperature and Humidity: Hardy in USDA zones 5-9. Iris cristata is well-suited to a wide range of climates, from colder northern regions to warmer southern areas. It can tolerate cold winters and prefers moderate humidity levels. In areas with extreme cold, providing a layer of mulch in the winter can protect the rhizomes from freezing temperatures.

Fertilization: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to encourage healthy growth and flowering. An additional feeding in mid-summer can help sustain the plant through its active growing season. Organic fertilizers, such as compost or well-rotted manure, are also beneficial for maintaining soil fertility and promoting lush, healthy growth.

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. In late fall or early winter, trim back any remaining foliage to prepare the plant for dormancy.

Pests and Problems: Generally pest-resistant, but may occasionally be affected by iris borers, aphids, 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 or diseases are detected, treat with appropriate measures such as insecticidal soap or fungicides.

Pickup available at Aiken Nursery

Usually ready in 2-4 days

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.

What is your return policy?

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

What payment methods can I use?

We offer 35 different payment methods including major providers like Mastercard, Visa, PayPal, American Express and Diners as well as many different local payment methods including Klarna, iDEAL, AliPay, Sofort, giropay, and many more.

Can I make changes to my order after it’s been placed?

At Woodlanders, we strive to fulfill orders as quickly as possible. Therefore, we can only accommodate changes to your order within the first 24 hours after it has been placed. These changes include adding or removing products and modifying the delivery address. If you need to make any changes or if there has been a mistake with your order information, please reach out to us promptly via our CONTACT page with your order number for the quickest resolution.

Your satisfaction is our priority, and we appreciate your understanding and cooperation.