Iris germanica 'Earl of Essex' ~ Earl of Essex Bearded Iris

Iris germanica 'Earl of Essex' ~ Earl of Essex Bearded IrisEarl of Essex forms a sturdy clump of upright, sword like gray green foliage. In mid to late spring, tall flower stalks emerge bearing large, ruffled blooms in shades of lavender to soft violet, often accented with a lighter beard at the throat. Prefers partial sun and rich, moist well drained soils. Type: Perennial Origins: southern Europe, and Mediterranean Height: 2. 5' 3' Spread: 1. 5' 2' Spacing: 1. 5 USDA Hardiness Zone: 3 9 Culture: Full Sun,

‘Earl of Essex’ forms a sturdy clump of upright, sword-like gray-green foliage. In mid to late spring, tall flower stalks emerge bearing large, ruffled blooms in shades of lavender to soft violet, often accented with a lighter beard at the throat. Prefers partial sun and rich, moist well-drained soils.  

MAINTENANCE NEEDS:  Low Maintenance.  Water regularly, then occasionally once established.  Can cut back any dying foliage after flowering.  Some major issues can be soft root, crown rot, and leaf spot. Watch for molting and remove any affected leaves.  Avoid overcrowding and too much shade to lessen the chance of these issues.

LANDSCAPE USES:  Accents or Group Plantings, Borders, Woodland Gardens, Water Gardens, Ponds and Streams, Foundation Plantings, and Containers.

COMPANION PLANTS:  Joe Pye Weed, Coral Bells, Sedge

IMAGE: Longfield-Gardens, Earl of Essex Bearded Iris. 

*As plants have ranges in appearance they may not appear as the images shown.