Oregon Iris Seeds
Iris tenax
- HOW TO GROW
- FAST FACTS
HOW TO GROW
Sowing: To help soften the hard seed coat, soak the seeds overnight in warm water before planting. To germinate, these seeds need a period of several months of cold followed by warmth. To accomplish this naturally, direct sow the seeds in fall; they will begin to germinate in the late spring and early summer. Alternatively, the seed can be store in moist sand in the refrigerator for 60-90 days then planted 1/2" deep in peat pots. For best results, use slightly acidic soil and keep the soil moist until germination. The seedlings can be planted outdoors in late spring or early summer or when there is no chance of frost, or when they have reached a height of 4-6".
Growing: Seedlings will need occasional watering until they become established. Mature plants are adaptable, tolerating either moist or dry soil. These native plants flourish with little attention, and soon form dense colonies that often crowd out other plants. When fully grown, the plants can easily be divided in late fall. Blooming usually begins in the second year after planting.
Harvesting: These blossoms do not perform well as cut flowers, and are best enjoyed outdoors.
Seed Saving: Very soon after blooming, this plant will produce large green pods that quickly turn brown and drop their seed. Gather the pods as soon as the seeds inside have turned brown; spread the pods out to dry completely, then separate the seeds from the husks. Store the cleaned seed in a cool, dry place.
FAST FACTS
Common Names: Tough-leaf Iris
Latin Name: Iris tenax
Species Origin: US Native Wildflower
Type: Native Wildflowers
Life Cycle: Perennial
USDA Zones: 7, 8, 9
US Regions: Mountain
Seeds per Ounce: 2,400
Stratification: Cold/Wet for 8 Weeks
Germination Ease: Stratify 8 Weeks
Sunlight: Part Sun
Height: 9 Inches
Color: Purple
Bloom Season: Blooms Early Spring, Blooms Late Spring
Uses: Deer Resistant
DESCRIPTION
HOW TO GROW
Sowing: To help soften the hard seed coat, soak the seeds overnight in warm water before planting. To germinate, these seeds need a period of several months of cold followed by warmth. To accomplish this naturally, direct sow the seeds in fall; they will begin to germinate in the late spring and early summer. Alternatively, the seed can be store in moist sand in the refrigerator for 60-90 days then planted 1/2" deep in peat pots. For best results, use slightly acidic soil and keep the soil moist until germination. The seedlings can be planted outdoors in late spring or early summer or when there is no chance of frost, or when they have reached a height of 4-6".
Growing: Seedlings will need occasional watering until they become established. Mature plants are adaptable, tolerating either moist or dry soil. These native plants flourish with little attention, and soon form dense colonies that often crowd out other plants. When fully grown, the plants can easily be divided in late fall. Blooming usually begins in the second year after planting.
Harvesting: These blossoms do not perform well as cut flowers, and are best enjoyed outdoors.
Seed Saving: Very soon after blooming, this plant will produce large green pods that quickly turn brown and drop their seed. Gather the pods as soon as the seeds inside have turned brown; spread the pods out to dry completely, then separate the seeds from the husks. Store the cleaned seed in a cool, dry place.
FAST FACTS
Common Names: Tough-leaf Iris
Latin Name: Iris tenax
Species Origin: US Native Wildflower
Type: Native Wildflowers
Life Cycle: Perennial
USDA Zones: 7, 8, 9
US Regions: Mountain
Seeds per Ounce: 2,400
Stratification: Cold/Wet for 8 Weeks
Germination Ease: Stratify 8 Weeks
Sunlight: Part Sun
Height: 9 Inches
Color: Purple
Bloom Season: Blooms Early Spring, Blooms Late Spring
Uses: Deer Resistant