Iris varieties are incredibly diverse, and their number is already approaching 800 species. The most popular among them are the bearded ones. They got this name because of the hairy outgrowth on the lower petals. Their homeland is the southern regions, therefore, for abundant flowering and plant health, it is necessary to create the necessary conditions for it. But Siberian irises, representatives of the beardless species, were bred by breeders with more viable qualities – they are frost-resistant, less susceptible to diseases.
They can be divided into 3 groups according to the size of the bush. Tall varieties grow up to 1 m in length. They are always the first to draw attention to themselves in the flower garden. The average ones reach 70-90 cm. This is the most numerous and varied species. Dwarf irises have a length of 25 to 40 cm, depending on the variety.
Bearded and Siberian iris varieties differ in their characteristics and appearance.
It is difficult to single out the brightest and most beautiful among these plants, there are a huge number of them. One can only name some of the most popular varieties:
- Florentine Silk. Harmoniously combines peach upper petals and lilac with a pink border – lower, tricolor beard – orange, white at the base, blue at the tips of the bristles;
- Dance Hall Dandy. The pale pink top is juxtaposed with contrasting maroon lower petals. The bristles are bright red-orange.
Monochromatic flowers are equally attractive. These include Rip City with burgundy red petals, a bright and sunny Mandarin Orange King and Country Dawn with a lemon hue.
They amaze the imagination with their beauty, unusual shapes and color combinations. Their only drawback is that they have absolutely no aroma. Breeders are working hard on this issue. Here are some outstanding representatives of the Siberians:
- Crimson Cloisonne. Large purple flowers with dark veins and a white center;
- Double standards. Violet-lilac petals are decorated at the base with a contrasting yellow spot;
- Rigamarole. A very large flower with delicate lilac petals, with a yellow-white spot in the middle.
In addition to unpretentious care, resistance to cold and pests, Siberian varieties are distinguished by a longer flowering period of one flower – up to 5 days, while bearded ones wither on the third day.
But, in order not to choose which species are better, plant both varieties in your area. And for good flowering, any flower needs the care and care of the owner.