Bearded iris 'Thornbird' (Iris germanica 'Thornbird')

Bearded iris 'Thornbird'

Also known as: German bearded iris 'Thornbird'

With light beige-colored petals decorated with a deep purple stripe down their center and a mustard-colored eye, you won't get much more individual than bearded iris 'Thornbird'. It's an Iris cultivar within the tall bearded iris group that has won multiple awards for its beauty. It should come as no shock that it's a favorite amongst gardeners.

Scientific classification

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Toxic to Pets

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Care Guide for Bearded iris 'Thornbird'

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Water requirements for bearded iris 'Thornbird' vary significantly: Bearded bearded iris 'Thornbird' needs minimal watering, only when dry, while Siberian bearded iris 'Thornbird' prefers consistently moist soil. Most bearded iris 'Thornbird' species are sensitive to standing water, with poorly-drained soil risking root rot.

Fertilize: Bearded iris 'Thornbird' prefers humus-rich soil. Fertilize in early spring, early fall, and before flowering with phosphorus-rich (5-10-5 NPK) or balanced (20-20-20 NPK) fertilizers. Organic options enhance soil. Water after fertilizing to aid nutrient absorption by roots.

Pruning: Bearded iris 'Thornbird' thrives with early to late spring pruning, removing dead foliage and spent blooms to boost growth and flowering. Cutting fan-shaped leaves to 4-6 inches post-bloom improves air circulation and prevents disease, enhancing both aesthetics and future blooms.

Propagation: Propagation of bearded iris 'Thornbird' should be done by division rather than seeding to maintain flower consistency. This is done 2-3 months post-bloom by cutting with a sharp knife, ensuring each division has a 15 cm rhizome. Space divisions 30 cm apart, or 15 cm for dwarf varieties.

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