Iris Fernaldii

Description

Iris Fernaldii is a beautiful flowering plant that belongs to the family Iridaceae. It is a native plant of Maine, USA, and was named after Merritt Lyndon Fernald, a renowned American botanist. Iris Fernaldii is a perennial plant that blooms in late spring or early summer, producing stunning violet-blue flowers with yellow markings. The plant has a clumping growth habit and can reach a height of up to 18 inches.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Iris Fernaldii has narrow, sword-shaped leaves that are green in color and grow up to 18 inches long. The flowers are the most striking feature of this plant, with their violet-blue petals and yellow markings that resemble a butterfly’s wings. Each flower measures around 3 inches in diameter and has six petals. The plant blooms in late spring or early summer and can continue blooming for up to three weeks.

Care Guide

Water: Iris Fernaldii requires moderate watering, with the soil being kept moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant deeply once a week, and more frequently during hot weather.Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in the spring with a balanced fertilizer, and again in mid-summer with a high-potassium fertilizer to promote blooming.Soil: The plant prefers well-draining, slightly acidic soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Amend the soil with compost or peat moss to improve drainage and add nutrients.Sunlight: Iris Fernaldii requires full sun to grow and bloom properly. Plant it in a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.

Common Pests & Diseases

Iris Fernaldii is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may occasionally be affected by aphids, thrips, or spider mites. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant may also be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet, so be sure to provide adequate drainage.

Habitat

Iris Fernaldii is native to Maine, USA, and can be found growing in wet meadows, bogs, and along the edges of streams and ponds. The plant prefers moist soil and can tolerate some shade, but it grows best in full sun.

Question and Answer

Q: How do I propagate Iris Fernaldii?
A: The plant can be propagated by dividing the clumps in the fall or early spring.Q: Can Iris Fernaldii be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers, but it requires a large container and regular watering.Q: How often should I fertilize Iris Fernaldii?
A: Fertilize the plant in the spring with a balanced fertilizer, and again in mid-summer with a high-potassium fertilizer to promote blooming.Q: How tall does Iris Fernaldii grow?
A: The plant can reach a height of up to 18 inches.

Related Plants

• Iris Versicolor
• Iris Setosa
• Iris Virginica
• Iris Cristata

References

• “Iris Fernaldii.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b587.
• “Iris Fernaldii.” Plant Delights Nursery, www.plantdelights.com/products/iris-fernaldii.
• “Iris Fernaldii.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/20112/Iris-fernaldii/Details.