Japanese Roof Iris

Iris tectorum "Album"

$16.00

1 Gallon | Hardiness Zones 5-9

Scott Ogden in Garden Bulbs for the South says: "Japanese roof iris (I. tectorum) is famous in its native country as a flower for planting on sod roofs, just as housleeks are uesed on cottage roofs of France. In gardens the silky, green fans of leaves form large patches, making fine subject for the foreground of a shady border. In April the ruffled, orchidlike blooms appear among the handsome leaves. In common forms these are a rich mottled blue, with white crests. Even more lovely are the white, yellow-crested blooms of I. tectorum alba.". This is the latter form.

Plant Specs
  • Zones: 5 - 9
  • Sun: Full Sun and Part Shade
  • Soil: Well-drained and Fertile
  • Height at Maturity: 12 - 15 Inches
  • Spread at Maturity: 12 - 15 Inches
  • Growth Rate: Moderate

Semi-Evergreen

Flower/Foliage

Foliage: The leaves are broad, sword-shaped, and bright green, forming a dense, fan-like clump.

Flowers: Produces delicate, pure white flowers with a slight frill on the edges and a yellow crest, typically in mid to late spring. The blooms are 3-4 inches across and held above the foliage on slender stems.

white

Care Info

Read full care instruction manual here.

Light Requirements: Prefers partial shade to full sun. Iris tectorum "Album" thrives in partial shade, especially in warmer climates, but can tolerate full sun in cooler regions. It is well-suited to woodland gardens or areas with dappled sunlight. Too much direct, intense sunlight in hot climates can cause leaf scorch, so some protection is advisable.

Soil Requirements: Prefers well-draining, fertile soil. This iris grows best in rich, loamy soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH range (6.0-7.5). It can tolerate a variety of soil types, including clay, provided there is good drainage. Incorporating organic matter, such as compost or leaf mold, improves soil structure and supports healthy growth.

Watering: Requires regular watering, especially during dry periods. Iris tectorum "Album" prefers consistently moist soil, particularly during the growing season. However, it does not tolerate waterlogged conditions, so ensuring proper drainage is essential. Mulching around the base of the plant helps retain soil moisture and regulate temperature, particularly in warmer climates.

Temperature and Humidity: Hardy in USDA zones 5-9. Iris tectorum "Album" is adaptable to a wide range of climates. It can withstand cold winters and is tolerant of occasional frost, making it suitable for both temperate and warmer regions. The plant prefers moderate humidity levels but is relatively adaptable to varying humidity conditions.

Fertilization: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to encourage healthy growth and vibrant flowering. An additional application in mid-summer can help sustain the plant during 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 aphids, slugs, 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.