Iris sibirica 'Cape Cod Boys'

Providing a long season of bloom – frequently including a period of rebloom under the right conditions – vigorous Iris sibirica ‘Cape Cod Boys' captures the essence of dreamy views and summer fun on Massachusetts’ famous coastline thanks to its pale ocean-blue standards and style arms, blue-violet falls with darker veining, and sandy yellow signals. The pointed, attractive blue-green foliage of this Siberian Iris adds verticality to the garden before, during, and after blossom time.

Siberian Irises combine easy care with grace and beauty. Group them together or scatter them throughout a perennial border or foundation planting. Their flowers rise above sturdy stems and slender leaves, and feature intricate, arching standards and ruffled falls. They make stunning cut flowers. Iris breeders are dramatically changing the range of colors, heights, and bloom times available in this group. Siberian Iris often begin to flower in late May, but the peak of bloom here is in the first half of June. Their thick roots drive down deeply, which makes them drought resistant (though they also thrive in damp soil) and great plants for holding steep banks in place. Each clump becomes huge, and when a group of them grows together, weeds can't grow in between. After bloom, the grassy leaves stand erect and green through the growing season. Siberian Iris struggle in the desert Southwest.

The Iris genus is named for the Greek goddess of the rainbow, and it’s easy to see why. These brilliantly colored, spring-flowering perennials are part of a huge plant family that contains upwards of 300 species. Iris range from timid and inconspicuous wildlings to the splendid and extravagant Tall Bearded Iris, which create striking vertical highlights in the late spring border. The chosen habitats of Iris range from standing water to formal borders, and there is scarcely a color or combination of colors that can't be found. Iris plants are fairly indestructible. They thrive in most parts of the country and are largely critter resistant. Adding to their appeal, they are magnets for hummingbirds and other pollinators. Even after bloom, the vertical foliage persists through the growing season. Plant a variety and enjoy a rainbow of colors that will return year after year in your garden.

For more information on growing Siberian Iris, click Growing Guide.