Contents
Description
Iris Germanica Mer Du Sud is a stunning, rhizomatous perennial plant that belongs to the Iridaceae family. It is commonly known as Bearded Iris, and it is native to the Mediterranean region, specifically in France. This plant produces large, showy, and fragrant flowers, making it a favorite among gardeners and florists. The blooms are typically blue-violet, and they can reach up to 4 inches in diameter. The flowers have three petals and three sepals, with a distinctive yellow beard on the lower petal. The plant blooms in late spring to early summer and can grow up to 3 feet in height.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Spermatophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Iridaceae |
| Genus: | Iris |
Appearance
Iris Germanica Mer Du Sud is a stunning plant that has a clumping growth habit. It produces sword-shaped, green leaves that can reach up to 3 feet in length. The leaves are arranged in a fan-like pattern, and they provide an excellent backdrop for the showy flowers. The plant produces large, fragrant, and eye-catching flowers that can be blue-violet, purple, yellow, or white. The flowers have three petals and three sepals, and the lower petal has a distinctive yellow beard. The blooms can reach up to 4 inches in diameter and are produced on tall, sturdy stems. The plant typically blooms in late spring to early summer and can grow up to 3 feet in height.
Care Guide
Iris Germanica Mer Du Sud is a relatively easy plant to care for, provided that it is grown in the right conditions. Here are some care tips to help you keep your plant healthy and thriving:
Water
This plant prefers well-drained soil, so make sure to water it deeply but infrequently. The plant needs about an inch of water per week during the growing season. Avoid watering the plant from above, as this can lead to fungal diseases.
Fertilization
Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer in early spring, just as new growth emerges. You can also apply a second dose of fertilizer in midsummer to encourage more blooms.
Soil
This plant prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic. Add organic matter, such as compost or peat moss, to the soil to help improve drainage and fertility.
Sunlight
This plant thrives in full sun, but it can also tolerate partial shade. Make sure to provide at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Hardiness Zones
This plant is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Iris Germanica Mer Du Sud is relatively pest and disease-resistant, but it can still be affected by a few common problems. Here are some of the most common pests and diseases that can affect this plant:
Pests:
– Iris borer- Thrips- Spider mites
Diseases:
– Leaf spot- Rot- Rust
Habitat
Iris Germanica Mer Du Sud is native to the Mediterranean region, specifically in France. It prefers well-drained soil and thrives in full sun to partial shade. The plant is commonly used in gardens and landscaping as a border plant, and it is also popular among florists for its showy blooms.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I fertilize Iris Germanica Mer Du Sud?
A: You should fertilize the plant in early spring and midsummer with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: What is the ideal soil pH for this plant?
A: This plant prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0.
Q: Can I divide Iris Germanica Mer Du Sud?
A: Yes, you can divide the plant every 3-5 years in early fall.
Q: How often should I water this plant?
A: Water the plant deeply but infrequently, providing about an inch of water per week during the growing season.
Related Plants
– Iris Germanica ‘Apricot Silk’- Iris Germanica ‘Beverly Sills’- Iris Germanica ‘Immortality’- Iris Germanica ‘Raspberry Blush’
References
– Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Iris germanica ‘Mer du Sud.’ Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a366- Purdue University Department of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture. (n.d.). Bearded Iris. Retrieved from https://www.hort.purdue.edu/ext/HO-191.pdf- The Spruce. (2021). Growing Bearded Iris. Retrieved from https://www.thespruce.com/growing-bearded-iris-1402184
