Bearded iris (also called German iris) provides a striking vertical accent with its stiff sword-shaped leaves.

Among the many members of the iris family, the bearded iris is probably the most popular. It's the same flower you would have seen in your grandmother's garden.

Flower colors run the rainbow from deep burgundy red to pastel pinks and yellows, to every shade of blue and violet

This tough plant can provide lovely color in sun and partial shade, moist and dry soil.

Notable Varieties
There are hundreds of varieties of iris. A few to consider:

'American Style' has pastel pink flowers
'Beverly Sills' is among the most popular varieties; coral flowers on 35-inch stems.
'Honky Tonk Blues' features ruffled flowers in dark blue swirled with white.

Care
Bearded iris are fairly undemanding if their basic needs are met. Fertilize in the spring with a product suited to bulbs. Keep irises watered well for the first year, and divide them every 3 to 4 years to rejuvenate aging colonies.
Planting

Planting
Plant established plants or rhizomes or tubers in fall or spring, sinking them no more than one inch below the surface. Allow 12 to 15 inches of space between new plants. Divide when flowering diminishes, or when the plants become crowded.

Pests and Diseases
Most iris are pest- and disease-free, though the German bearded types are prone to leaf spot, rust, and borers.