Irises join other perennials in the great flower blooming season of Springtime. The Regina Iris (Neomarica caerulea ‘Regina’) is a striking example of the Iris species. Commonly called Apostle Iris or Giant Walking Iris as well, this Iris is a beautiful representation. The Regina Iris is a wider leafed variety with strong, upright blades in a vibrant green that can reach 3-4’ in height. From February through the summer, flower spikes bloom with bluish-purple irises, lined with a darker blue vein. Each bloom is 3-4” wide and several blooms will appear on each plant. Though the individual blooms will only last a few days, this Iris will bloom several times through the season.
The Regina Iris does best in full sun to partial shade and is slightly drought tolerant as well as salt tolerant. They do very well in larger pots on a patio or deck, as well as in the ground. Their architectural fan shape and sharp leaf blades make it a striking plant on its own and blends well with the modern architecture popular currently. In a flower bed area, it makes a good background plant with smaller annuals or groundcovers in front of it.
Caring for this Iris is easy. Don’t overwater them, plant them in well-draining soil, fertilize lightly, and enjoy them.
This plant column is provided by In The Garden, the Sanibel garden center located at 3889 Sanibel Captiva Road, Sanibel, Florida.