The Most Popular Iris, Ranked

Choose the Iris you think is the most popular!

Author: Gregor Krambs
Updated on Apr 29, 2024 06:40
In the world of gardening and botany, the allure of irises is universally acknowledged. Their striking forms and vibrant hues capture the attention of both enthusiasts and casual admirers alike. However, among the myriad varieties, opinions differ on which truly deserve the spotlight. This is where a ranking can illuminate the crowd favorites, offering a focus on those specimens that resonate most with the public. By participating in the voting process, gardeners, florists, and nature lovers contribute to shaping a curated list of top-tier irises. This engagement not only reflects the preferences of a diverse community but also guides newcomers in selecting exquisite varieties for their own gardens. As votes accumulate, the ranking dynamically alters, reflecting real-time preferences and sparking interest in lesser-known types.

What Is the Most Popular Iris?

  1. 1
    29
    votes
    This is the most popular iris worldwide and is known for its showy flowers and wide range of colors. It is also easy to grow and maintain.
    The Bearded Iris is a popular variety of Iris that is known for its showy flowers and distinctive bearded petals. It is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Iris family (Iridaceae). The Bearded Iris is widely cultivated for ornamental purposes due to its vibrant colors and delightful fragrance. It is native to Europe and some regions of Asia.
    • Scientific Name: Iris germanica
    • Family: Iridaceae
    • Common Names: Bearded Iris, German Iris
    • Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial
    • Flower Colors: Various, including purple, yellow, white, and bi-colors
  2. 2
    30
    votes
    Siberian Iris
    W. Bulach · CC BY-SA 4.0
    This iris is known for its delicate flowers and graceful foliage. It is also very hardy and can grow in a wide range of conditions.
    The Siberian Iris is a popular iris species known for its graceful and delicate beauty. It is native to Europe and Asia, particularly Siberia, hence its name. The Siberian Iris is highly valued for its profuse and colorful blooms, as well as its ability to thrive in a variety of growing conditions.
    • Height: 24-48 inches (60-120 cm)
    • Bloom Time: Late spring to early summer
    • Flower Colors: Various shades of blue, purple, white, and yellow
    • Number of Petals: Usually 3, but can have more in some varieties
    • Fragrance: Mild, pleasant scent
  3. 3
    28
    votes
    This iris is known for its large, showy flowers and dramatic color combinations. It is also very hardy and can grow in wet or boggy conditions.
    The Japanese Iris, also known as Iris ensata, is a stunning flowering plant that is native to Japan. It is renowned for its outstanding beauty and has become a favorite among gardeners and flower enthusiasts worldwide. The Japanese Iris features large, showy, and vibrantly colored flowers that are often found in shades of blue, purple, and white. The intricate and delicate patterns on the petals add to its allure. With its elegant appearance, the Japanese Iris is commonly used in gardens, parks, and floral arrangements, making it a true symbol of grace and sophistication.
    • Scientific Name: Iris ensata
    • Family: Iridaceae
    • Native to: Japan
    • Bloom Time: Late spring to early summer
    • Plant Type: Perennial
  4. 4
    14
    votes
    Dutch Iris
    Hectonichus · CC BY-SA 3.0
    This iris is known for its bright colors and long, narrow leaves. It is also very popular as a cut flower.
    The Dutch Iris is a popular variety of Iris flowers known for its elegant and vibrant blooms. It is a cultivar derived from Iris x hollandica, which is a hybrid between Iris latifolia and Iris xiphium. Dutch Iris is widely cultivated in the Netherlands and is often used in floral arrangements due to its striking appearance and long-lasting quality.
    • Bloom Time: Late spring to early summer
    • Botanical Name: Iris x hollandica
    • Family: Iridaceae
    • Native to: Unknown (cultivated variety)
    • Bloom Color: Various shades of blue, purple, and white
  5. 5
    14
    votes
    Louisiana Iris
    James Steakley · CC BY-SA 3.0
    This iris is known for its large, colorful flowers and ability to grow in wet or boggy conditions. It is also very hardy and easy to grow.
    The Louisiana Iris is a stunning and popular variety of Iris known for its vibrant colors and large, showy flowers. It originated in the wetlands and marshes of Louisiana, hence its name. The Louisiana Iris is prized for its adaptability to a wide range of growing conditions, making it a favorite among both casual gardeners and professional horticulturists.
    • Size: Medium to large, with some varieties reaching up to 40 inches (100 cm) in height.
    • Flower Colors: Available in a wide range of colors, including shades of blue, purple, pink, yellow, and white.
    • Flower Form: Showy, six-petaled flowers with intricate patterns and markings.
    • Blooming Season: Typically blooms in spring and early summer, although certain varieties may bloom later.
    • Sunlight Requirements: Thrives in full sun to partial shade, depending on the variety.
  6. 6
    14
    votes
    This iris is known for its unusual, crested flowers and delicate foliage. It is also very hardy and can grow in a wide range of conditions.
    Crested Iris is a popular type of iris that belongs to the Iris genus. It is known for its unique, crested, and ruffled petals that give it a distinctive appearance. Native to North America, it is a favorite among gardeners and flower enthusiasts.
    • Scientific Name: Iris cristata
    • Family: Iridaceae
    • Native to: North America
    • Bloom Time: Spring
    • Height: 6-12 inches
  7. 7
    8
    votes

    Pacific Coast Iris

    Neva S. Bartholomew
    This iris is known for its large, showy flowers and ability to grow in dry, rocky conditions. It is also very hardy and easy to grow.
    The Pacific Coast Iris is a popular iris species known for its vibrant blooms and hardy nature. It is native to the western coast of North America and is highly sought after by gardeners and iris enthusiasts. The Pacific Coast Iris is renowned for its ability to thrive in coastal regions, tolerating salty air and sandy soil.
    • Bloom Color: Varies (blue, purple, yellow, white, etc.)
    • Bloom Time: Late spring to early summer
    • Plant Height: 12-36 inches
    • Bloom Size: 3-6 inches
    • Foliage Type: Evergreen or semi-evergreen
  8. 8
    6
    votes
    This iris is known for its early blooming and bright colors. It is also very hardy and can grow in a wide range of conditions.
    The Reticulated Iris is a popular variety of iris flowers known for their strikingly intricate and intricate patterns on their petals, resembling a net or network. They are a subgroup within the Iris genus, consisting of several species and cultivars.
    • Origin: Native to Eurasia and the Middle East
    • Appearance: Petals with distinct net-like patterns
    • Color: Varies, including shades of blue, purple, yellow, and white
    • Height: Ranges from 10 to 30 centimeters
    • Bloom Time: Early spring to late spring
  9. 9
    3
    votes
    This iris is known for its tall, elegant stems and large, showy flowers. It is also very hardy and can grow in wet or dry conditions.
    Spuria Iris is a type of iris hybrid that belongs to the genus Iris and family Iridaceae. It is a tall and robust plant known for its striking beauty and stunning flowers. The name 'Spuria' refers to the characteristic absence of a beard, or fuzzy patch, on the falls of the flower. The blooms of Spuria Iris come in various colors and patterns, adding vibrancy and elegance to any garden or landscape.
    • Height: 2-5 feet (0.6-1.5 meters)
    • Bloom Time: Late spring to early summer
    • Flower Size: 4-8 inches (10-20 cm) in diameter
    • Number of Standards: 3
    • Number of Falls: 3
  10. 10
    7
    votes
    This iris is known for its large, dramatic flowers and intricate patterns. It is also very rare and highly prized by collectors.
    The Oncocyclus Iris is a type of Iris flower known for its large size, striking colors, and intricate patterns. It belongs to the Oncocyclus section of the Iris genus, which consists of some of the most popular and coveted Iris species.
    • Common Name: Oncocyclus Iris
    • Scientific Name: Iris spp.
    • Family: Iridaceae
    • Origin: Mediterranean region and the Middle East
    • Size: Stems can grow up to 40-50 cm, while flower sizes range from 10-20 cm

Missing your favorite Iris?

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Ranking factors for popular Iris

  1. Aesthetic appeal
    The beauty and uniqueness of the flower's shape, size, and color are crucial factors that contribute to its popularity. Some Iris varieties have intricate patterns, striking color combinations, or delicate petal forms that make them highly sought after.
  2. Fragrance
    Many gardeners consider fragrance an essential characteristic when choosing Iris varieties. Some have strong, pleasant scents, while others may have a subtle or nearly undetectable aroma.
  3. Hardiness
    The ability of the plant to withstand varying weather conditions and temperatures is essential. Irises that can grow well in a wide range of climates will generally be more popular among gardeners.
  4. Disease resistance
    Popular Iris varieties are often resistant to common pests and diseases that can decimate plants. Disease-resistant Irises are desirable because they require less care and can save gardeners time and resources when managing pests and diseases.
  5. Growth habit
    Irises can have different growth habits, including tall, medium, or short. Some gardeners prefer certain sizes or forms of the plant to fit their landscaping needs or preferences.
  6. Bloom size and duration
    The size of the flower and how long it remains in bloom are essential factors when considering popular Iris varieties. Larger blooms and longer-lasting flowers are generally more attractive options.
  7. Rebloom potential
    Some Iris varieties are known for their ability to rebloom, producing multiple sets of flowers throughout the growing season. Rebloomers provide an extended season of color and are attractive to many gardeners.
  8. Availability and cost
    Widespread availability and affordability make some Iris varieties more popular. Rare or specialty varieties may be desirable for certain gardeners but may not be as readily available or affordable.
  9. Ease of cultivation
    Many gardeners want Irises that are easy to grow, requiring little maintenance, and adapt well to various soil types and moisture levels. Varieties that are low-maintenance and tolerant of varying conditions will be more popular.
  10. Popularity in landscaping and gardening trends
    Public opinion, expert endorsements, and gardening trends can also significantly impact popular Iris varieties. If a specific variety is frequently recommended or showcased in gardens, magazines, or plant forums, it may gain popularity among gardeners.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most popular Iris. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or Iris is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

  • 1419 views
  • 149 votes
  • 10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each Iris once every 24 hours. The rank of each Iris is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

More information on most popular iris

Iris is a genus of flowering plants, comprising over 300 species. These beautiful flowers are known for their intricate and vibrant petals that come in a wide range of colors and patterns. In the world of gardening and horticulture, the Iris is a popular choice for its versatility and stunning appearance. When it comes to popularity, the most sought-after Iris varieties are the Bearded Iris, Siberian Iris, and Dutch Iris. Bearded Iris, also known as Iris germanica, is the most widely grown Iris in the world. The plant's distinctive beard-like growth on the falls, or lower petals, gives it a unique appearance that is hard to miss. Siberian Iris, on the other hand, is highly prized for its delicate beauty and ability to thrive in wetter and colder conditions. This variety has narrow, grass-like leaves and produces striking blue, lavender, and white flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer. Dutch Iris, also known as Iris hollandica, is another popular variety that is highly sought after for its long-lasting blooms and bright colors. These Iris plants produce tall, sturdy stems that can grow up to two feet tall and are typically used in floral arrangements and bouquets. Whether you're a gardener or simply an admirer of these stunning flowers, the Iris is undoubtedly a crowd favorite. With so many varieties to choose from, there's an Iris out there for everyone.

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