Contents
Description
Iris Reticulata Clairette is a member of the Iris family, known for its stunning blue and white flowers that bloom in early spring. It is a small, bulbous perennial that grows up to 15cm in height. The plant produces narrow, sword-shaped leaves that are a grey-green colour with a prominent central vein. The flowers are fragrant and have six petals that are blue and white in colour. The white falls have a yellow crest and are marked with blue veins.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Iridaceae |
| Genus | Iris |
Appearance
Iris Reticulata Clairette has a distinct appearance and is easily recognizable by its blue and white flowers. The flowers are approximately 5cm in diameter and have a delicate fragrance. The petals are blue with white edges and the falls are white with a yellow crest and blue veins. The leaves are narrow and sword-shaped, measuring approximately 10cm in length. They are a grey-green colour with a prominent central vein. The plant’s bulbs are small, round, and brown in colour.
Care Guide
Iris Reticulata Clairette is a relatively low-maintenance plant, but it does require specific care to thrive. Here are some key care tips:Water: These plants prefer well-draining soil and do not like to be over-watered. Water only when the soil is dry to the touch.Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring when new growth appears.Soil: These plants prefer well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. Amend the soil with organic matter before planting.Sunlight: These plants require full sun to partial shade. Provide a location that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.Hardiness Zones: These plants are hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Iris Reticulata Clairette is relatively pest and disease resistant, but it is still susceptible to a few common issues. Here are some potential problems to watch out for:Thrips: These small insects can damage the flowers and leaves. Treat with an insecticidal soap.Sclerotinia: This fungal disease can cause rotting of the bulbs. Avoid over-watering and remove any affected plants.
Habitat
Iris Reticulata Clairette is native to Turkey, Iran, and the Caucasus region. It prefers well-draining soil and grows best in full sun to partial shade. These plants are commonly grown in gardens and rockeries.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Iris Reticulata Clairette?
A: Water only when the soil is dry to the touch. These plants prefer well-draining soil and do not like to be over-watered.Q: What is the ideal soil pH for Iris Reticulata Clairette?
A: These plants prefer slightly acidic soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.5.Q: How deep should I plant Iris Reticulata Clairette bulbs?
A: Plant the bulbs 5-7cm deep and 10-15cm apart.Q: When do Iris Reticulata Clairette flowers bloom?
A: These plants bloom in early spring, usually in February or March.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Iris Reticulata Clairette:- Iris reticulata ‘Harmony’- Iris danfordiae- Iris histrioides ‘Katharine Hodgkin’- Iris bucharica
References
– RHS. (n.d.). Iris reticulata ‘Clairette’. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/14615/Iris-reticulata-Clairette/Details- The Spruce. (2021). How to Grow Iris Reticulata. Retrieved from https://www.thespruce.com/growing-iris-reticulata-1402878- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Iris reticulata. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277740&isprofile=0&basic=iris%20reticulata
