FREE: 60ct. Oregon Iris Seeds

The listing, 60ct. Oregon Iris Seeds has ended.

Iris tenax is one of the most common of the Pacific Coast Iris growing in our maritime Northwest region, and one of the prettiest. Yet its epithet tenax, which means tough, testifies to its holding power.

This fire-resistant native is widespread throughout Western Oregon, reaches up into Grays and Thurston counties in Washington, and reaches down into Northern California. Its native habitat, from low to middle elevations, consists of moist meadows, forest glades, and open areas.

In the Garden

These natives are wonderful garden plants. They can take moist as well as dry areas, but they prefer moist, humus rich soil. They live happily in dappled shade or partial shade to full sun; however, they won’t tolerate full shade. Plant them along woodland’s edge or in the garden border. Give them what they need, and they will come back year after year, slowly increasing their clump.

This species is reportedly deer and rabbit resistant, but this may depend on the local herd. I planted my own iris from seed. Although they did not flower for a few years, once in bloom, they were worth the wait. Unfortunately, I no longer have these in the garden. I’ll look for some fully grown ones to plant again.

Handle with care. Fresh or dry rhizomes and rootstocks are poisonous when ingested; in addition, the foliage and flowers may cause skin dermatitis.