Another Perfect Plant: Iris pseudata
Photo courtesy Chad Harris, Mount Pleasant Iris Farm
Iris pseudata is the result of an unusual species cross between Iris pseudacorus and Iris ensata. These hybrid irises are adaptable and vigorous, striking in border plantings and water gardens alike. In average garden soil they reach heights of 3-4 feet. In water they can grow up to 5 feet. This vigor is no cause for alarm. Despite their connection to Iris pseudacorus, pseudata irises are sterile and non-invasive. They spread to form tight clumps and will not take over local wetlands.
Pseudata’s elegant flowers are reminiscent of Japanese Iris, with small upright standards and big blousy falls. They come in an exceptionally wide range of colors including some stunning shades and combinations of white, yellow, gold, peach, rose, red and violet. If you have a color palette in mind for your garden there is likely a pseudata that would fit in.
Just because they are sterile does not mean that they provide no value to local wildlife. Pseudata irises are quite generous in their nectar production and therefore popular with hummingbirds and other pollinators. Deer and rabbits, on the other hand, do not seem to have much of a taste for them so you can rest easy knowing they will not get browsed.
Photo Credits:
Chad Harris
Sources:
Photo courtesy Chad Harris, Mount Pleasant Iris Farm