Miniature Irises - Garden Basics - Flower - Bulb ((Iridacea))

These low growing irises add bright spots of color to the landscape in late winter. They are best for naturalizing and rock gardens. They also make nice little pot plants. Plant them in well-drained soil in a sunny location.

Danford Iris -- Iridaceae danfordiae
This lovely little plant grows 4 inches high when in flower and is delightfully fragrant. Flowers are lemon-yellow with green markings and bright yellowish-green to orange markings on the haft of the falls. Although hardy, it comes into flower in January or February and needs protection in areas where the weather is cold and wet to prevent damage to the flowers. The leaves are short at flowering time, elongating to 12 inches afterward. Plant 3 inches deep and 6 inches apart in a sunny location.

Reticulated Iris -- Iridaceae reticulata
This popular little iris grows 4 to 6 inches tall with small purple and gold ridged flowers that open in late winter or early spring. Leaves are narrow and four-angled. They are short at flowering time and elongate to 12 to 18 inches afterward. Plant 3 inches deep and 6 inches apart in full sun.