Description
Louisiana irises belong to the subsection Apogon (without beard or beardless), series Hexagonae of the genus Iris. They are derived from five species, most of which are indigenous to a limited area of south Louisiana and the Gulf Coast marsh areas between Texas and Florida.Two species, Iris brevicaulis and I. fulva, extend the range northward up the Mississippi Valley. Iris hexagona inhabits the southern Atlantic and Gulf Coasts, but by far, the greatest concentration is in the state of Louisiana, hence the name Louisiana Irises.Prefers a rich, acidic soil with plenty of moisture. If summers are dry, provide supplemental water to encourage blooming or move to a wet site. Never let it dry out. Plant in full sun to partial afternoon shade (in hot climates and desert southwest). Benefits by heavy fertilization. Louisiana iris have rhizomes which are thick, fleshy stems that grow underground. To plant rhizomes, dig a shallow hole just below the soil surface. Place rhizomes with the growing tip pointed up and roots pointed down. Make sure the growing tip is oriented in the direction where you want it to go since the fan will grow from that point. If planting several rhizomes, space approximately one foot apart. Primarily propagated through division. Dig and divide only when plants have less vigorous flowering. Don’t let it dry out during transplanting. Can be divided in spring or fall. May have problems with iris borer, slugs or snails.
