Contents
Description
The Iris Germanica Wabash is a stunning perennial plant that belongs to the family Iridaceae. It is native to the Mediterranean and is widely cultivated for its ornamental value. The plant produces large, showy flowers that are usually blue, purple, or white in color. The blooms are fragrant and have a unique shape that is instantly recognizable.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Iridaceae |
| Genus | Iris |
Appearance
The Iris Germanica Wabash can grow up to three feet tall and two feet wide. It has long, sword-shaped leaves that are dark green in color. The flowers are borne on tall stalks and have six petals, three upright and three drooping. The petals are usually blue-violet in color with a splash of white in the center. The blooms are about four inches wide and have a pleasant fragrance.
Care Guide
The Iris Germanica Wabash requires moderate care and attention to thrive. Here are some tips to keep your plants healthy:
- Water: Water the plant regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Avoid getting water on the leaves or flowers as it can cause fungal diseases.
- Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
- Soil: Plant the Iris Germanica Wabash in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The Iris Germanica Wabash is hardy in zones 3 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Iris Germanica Wabash is relatively pest and disease-free, but it can be affected by the following:
- Thrips: These tiny insects feed on the plant’s leaves and flowers, causing them to turn brown and die. Use insecticidal soap to control them.
- Iris Borer: This pest feeds on the plant’s rhizomes, causing the leaves to turn yellow and wilt. Remove affected plants and destroy them.
- Crown Rot: This fungal disease affects the plant’s roots and can cause the entire plant to wilt and die. Avoid planting the Iris Germanica Wabash in poorly-drained soil.
Habitat
The Iris Germanica Wabash is native to the Mediterranean region but is widely cultivated in gardens and parks around the world. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q. Can the Iris Germanica Wabash be grown in containers?
A. Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q. How often should I fertilize my Iris Germanica Wabash?
A. You should fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q. How do I propagate my Iris Germanica Wabash?
A. The plant can be propagated by dividing the rhizomes in the fall or early spring.
Q. How long do the flowers of the Iris Germanica Wabash last?
A. The flowers usually last for about two to three weeks.
Related Plants
- Iris Germanica ‘Bold Pretender’
- Iris Germanica ‘Blue Rhythm’
- Iris Germanica ‘Cantina’
- Iris Germanica ‘Natchez Trace’
References
- “Iris Germanica.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277791&isprofile=0.
- “Iris Germanica Wabash.” Plant Care Today, 10 Aug. 2021, plantcaretoday.com/iris-germanica-wabash.
- “Iris Germanica Wabash.” Gardenerdy, 12 Feb. 2021, gardenerdy.com/iris-germanica-wabash.html.
