How to identify Dwarf crested iris (Iris cristata)

How to identify Dwarf crested iris (Iris cristata)

Dwarf crested iris, also known as Crested iris

Dwarf crested iris is a diminutive perennial featuring sword-shaped leaves that typically reach a stature of 4-9 inches (10-23 cm) tall. Its rhizomatous nature allows it to spread effectively, forming verdant ground coverage. Characteristic of dwarf crested iris are the opulent, intricate flowers that unfurl to reveal crested falls and upright standards, signaling the advent of spring in shaded gardens. The foliage persists after flowering, sustaining an understorey of lush green throughout the growing season.

Lifespan: Perennial

Plant Type: Herb

Leaf Type: Deciduous

Quickly Identify Dwarf crested iris

Sword-shaped leaves, 6 inches (15 cm) long, with bright green upper surface and pale underside.

Opulent iris-like flowers in blue, purple, or white, with distinctive white patch and orange or yellow crest.

Delicate brown capsule fruit, split open to reveal seeds, with elongated shape and three visible compartments.

Verdant ground coverage with rhizomatous spreading nature, reaching 4-9 inches (10-23 cm) tall.

Flowers bloom April-May, symmetrical petals, 1.5 inches (3.8 cm) diameter, fluttering structure.

Detailed Traits of Dwarf crested iris

Leaf Features

The leaves of dwarf crested iris are strikingly sword-shaped, measuring approximately 6 inches (15 cm) in length. They display a bright green hue on their upper surface, contrasting with paler undersides. Their pointed tips and smooth texture make them easily identifiable. The leaves grow in a fan-like arrangement, enhancing their characteristic shape. Key features include their elongated form and the vivid color difference between the upper and lower surfaces, providing a clear visual distinction.

Learn About the Leaf Glossary

Flower Features

The flowers of dwarf crested iris are distinguished by their striking iris-like appearance in shades of blue, purple, or white. Each blossom features a distinctive white patch along with an orange or yellow crest at the center. The flowers typically bloom between April and May. Petals are arranged symmetrically, and the blooms are known for their delicate, fluttering structure. Each flower measures approximately 1.5 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter, making them a captivating sight during their peak blooming season.

Learn About the Flower Glossary

Fruit Features

The fruit of dwarf crested iris is a brown capsule, typically on display from June to July. This dry fruit typically splits open upon maturation to release the seeds contained within. The color of the capsule may vary slightly as it ages, often taking on a deeper hue. Its texture is relatively firm to the touch when mature, ensuring the seeds are well-protected until dispersal. Key features include its elongated shape and the distinct three compartments visible upon dehiscence. Each of these compartments harbors seeds that are ready for subsequent propagation.

Learn About the Fruit Glossary

A Botanist in Your Pocket

Scan QR code to download

More Plants You May Like and How to Identify Them

Cape jasmine

Gardenia jasminoides is an evergreen shrub with unique, glossy evergreen leaves and stunning flowers. The sophisticated, matte white flowers are often used in bouquets. The exceptional beauty of this ornamental plant has made it a popular and highly appreciated plant amongst gardeners and horticulturalists.

Golden pothos

The golden pothos (Epipremnum aureum) is a popular houseplant that is commonly seen in Australia, Asia, and the West Indies. It goes by many nicknames, including "devil's ivy", because it is so hard to kill and can even grow in low light conditions. Golden pothos has poisonous sap, so it should be kept away from pets and children.

Tomato

Solanum lycopersicum is an annual or perennial herbaceous vine native to Central and South America that produces a large, juicy, edible fruit known as tomato. Today there are over 10000 cultivated varieties. Although tomato is the world’s most popular vegetable, botanically it is a fruit.

Pepper

The pepper are commonly used for cooking in places such as the Southern U.S. and Central America. Most are moderately spicy, though because there are so many variants, the spice level can vary dramatically. Cayenne powder is also a popular seasoning product made from pepper plants.

Swiss cheese plant

The swiss cheese plant (Monstera deliciosa) produces bright, glossy leaves and makes a popular houseplant. It is originally native to tropical forest regions in Central America. The nickname swiss cheese plant refers to the small holes that develop in the plant's leaves. The long fruits resemble corncobs and smell sweet and fragrant when ripe.

Bigleaf hydrangea

The bigleaf hydrangea is a deciduous shrub native to Japan, and is known for its lush, oval, colorful inflorescence. The two types of Hydrangea macrophylla are mopheads - with large, ball-shaped, sterile flower clusters, and lace capes - with small round fertile flowers in the center, and sterile flowers on the outer side of each inflorescence. Depending on soil pH, blooms can change color from pink to blue.