Iris Dutch Hybrids

Dutch iris

These are bulbous irises that are thought to be a cross between Iris tingitana (the Tangier iris), and Iris xiphium (the Spanish iris). They are said to form part of the Xiphium Group of the wide Iris genus. The colour of the flowers ranges from pale blue to deep violet, yellows, gold and white. Purplish-blue 'Professor Blaauw' is one of the most popular cultivars. As their name suggests, many of the best forms were developed in Holland. Dutch irises grow well in cool to warm temperate climates, preferring well-drained, alkaline soil; though they will apparently also grow in acidic conditions. They need sun to do well. Plant the bulbs out in autumn at a depth twice the height of the bulb: the flowers appear in late winter to early spring.

Dutch irises with Tagetes lemmonii and daffodils in the garden of Maree Ross in Sydney

Dutch irises with Tagetes lemmonii and daffodils in the garden of Maree Ross in Sydney

The brilliant blue versions are a lovely contrast to orange and yellow flowers out at the same time, such as Justicia floribunda (syn. Justicia rizzinii, Abutilon hybrids, Streptosolen jamesonii, Tagetes lemmonii and perennial wallflowers. They make superb cut flowers. Whilst some gardeners have success in growing the bulbs from year to year, the best flowers seem to come from fresh bulbs planted out each year in our Sydney climate.