Iris douglasiana and Pacific Coast hybrids

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California Native Plants California Poppy Ceanothus Dicentra Formosa 'Western Bleeding Heart' Fuchsia flowered gooseberry Iris douglasiana Manzanita Pink Flowering Currant Sidalcea malveflora 'Checkerbloom' Sky Lupine

The star of spring.  In ideal conditions these irises provide an abundant show of color from mid March through April.  The native species, iris doglasiana, occurs throughout California. Prefering cooler, partly sunny environments, these plants grow to about 1'-2' tall and as wide with bladelike foliage supporting stalks of all shades of purple, blue, lilac and white.  This iris hybridizes easily which is why we have the incredibly colorful Pacific Coast hybrids ranging in colors from white, maroon, yellow, blue, purple, orange and every mix in between.  Plant in partly shaded areas to avoid heat scorch.  The flowers last longer when it is cooler. Late afternoon sun will wither them faster.  No summer water after two years.  Needs a well drained soil.  Pacific Coast hybrids are excellent in rock gardens.  The photo here is of Pacific Coast Iris hybrid 'Mission Santa Cruz'.