Iridaceae

dwarf crested iris

Iris cristata

Synonyms

Evansia cristata
Lophiris cristata
Neubeckia cristata

Other Common Names

crested iris

Plant Type

Herbaceous Wildflower

Life Cycle

Perennial

Typical Size

0.5-0.75 ft. tall
0.5-1.0 ft. wide

Tolerant of

Deer, Drought

Inolerant of

Dry Soil

Propagation

By seed, By division

Plant Propagation Notes

Seeds should be planted immediately after collection in acidic soil. Seedlings take two or three years to produce flowers. Divide in early fall.

Plants/Diseases

Snails and slugs often afflict this species.

Wildlife Benefits

Nectar/pollen source for pollinating insects

Iris cristata

USDA Hardiness Zones

3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Light Exposure

Full Sun, Part Sun/Shade

Soil Moisture

Medium, Moist

Soil Drainage

Well-drained

Soil pH

Acidic (less than 6.0), Neutral (6.0-8.0)

Native in South Carolina?

Yes

Plant Native Habitat

Moist forests, rich woods, roadbanks, streambanks.

Global Conservation Status (NatureServe)

Secure (G5)

Federal Conservation Status (USFWS)

Not Listed

Distribution Notes

Common in the SC Mountains and Piedmont, and rare in the Coastal Plain