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Description
Iris Reticulata J.S. Dijt, commonly known as the reticulated iris or netted iris, is a bulbous perennial plant that belongs to the iris family Iridaceae. This species is native to Turkey, Iraq, and Iran. The plant blooms in late winter or early spring, producing small, delicate flowers in shades of blue, violet, yellow, or white. The flowers have a distinctive net-like pattern on the falls that gives them their common name. The plant has a sweet fragrance that attracts pollinators, such as bees and butterflies.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Iridaceae |
| Genus | Iris |
Appearance
The reticulated iris grows up to 15 cm tall and has narrow, upright leaves that are about 10 cm long. The flowers are about 5 cm across and have six petals. The three upright petals are called standards, and the three downward-pointing petals are called falls. The falls have a net-like pattern of veins that gives them their distinctive appearance. The flowers are usually blue or purple, but can also be yellow or white. The plant produces one or two flowers per stem.
Care Guide
The reticulated iris is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow in a garden or container. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:
- Water: The plant prefers moist, well-drained soil. Water it regularly during the growing season, but avoid overwatering, which can cause the bulbs to rot.
- Fertilization: The plant does not require fertilization, but you can apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring to encourage growth and flowering.
- Soil: The plant prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil types, but does best in well-drained soil.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but will produce fewer flowers.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The reticulated iris is generally pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to the following:
- Iris borer: This pest can damage the leaves and bulbs of the plant. It can be controlled by removing affected leaves and applying an insecticide.
- Crown rot: This disease can be caused by overwatering or poor drainage. It can be prevented by planting the bulbs in well-drained soil and avoiding overwatering.
Habitat
The reticulated iris is native to rocky slopes and meadows in Turkey, Iraq, and Iran. It grows best in well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 9, but can be grown as an indoor plant in colder climates.
Question and Answer
Q: When should I plant reticulated iris bulbs?
A: Plant the bulbs in the fall, about 4 to 6 weeks before the first frost.
Q: How deep should I plant reticulated iris bulbs?
A: Plant the bulbs about 5 cm deep and 10 cm apart.
Q: How often should I water reticulated iris?
A: Water the plant regularly during the growing season, but avoid overwatering, which can cause the bulbs to rot.
Q: Can reticulated iris be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers. Use a well-draining potting mix and water regularly.
Related Plants
- Iris danfordiae
- Iris histrioides
- Iris unguicularis
References
- “Iris Reticulata J.S. Dijt.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287458. Accessed 23 Sept. 2021.
- “Iris Reticulata.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/15733/Iris-reticulata/Details. Accessed 23 Sept. 2021.
- “Reticulated Iris.” North Carolina State University, https://content.ces.ncsu.edu/reticulated-iris. Accessed 23 Sept. 2021.
