

Description
The Dutch Iris 'Valentine' (Iris x hybrid) features rich deep purple blooms with a luxurious velvet texture, bringing elegance and sophistication to any garden. Early flowering and reaching up to 75cm tall, it is an excellent cut flower, lasting up to two weeks in a vase. Supplied as dry bulbs, this iris is easy to grow, naturalizes well, and enhances garden beds, borders, and floral arrangements.
🌱 Growing & Care Guide
- Aspect: Full sun to semi-shade (at least half a day of direct sun)
- Growing Zones: Cool to Temperate (Zones 1-4)
- Suitable States: ACT, NSW, VIC, TAS, SA, QLD Tablelands
- Flowering: September - October (Early Spring)
- Height: Up to 75cm
- Planting Depth & Spacing: 8-10cm deep, 7-8cm apart
- Frost Hardy: Yes (but early spring frosts may damage soft buds)
- Water Wise: Yes (Minimal watering required in natural rainfall regions)
🌼 Planting & Maintenance
- Planting Time: Early to Mid-Autumn
- Soil: Well-drained, loosened to a depth of 15cm before planting
- Fertilization: No fertilizer is needed at planting. Avoid fresh manure.
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After Flowering:
- Do not remove or cover leaves after flowering, as they help the bulb store energy for next season.
- When overcrowded (after a few years), lift and separate bulbs in January once foliage has fully died back.
- Dry bulbs in a warm, airy place out of direct sun before storing for replanting in autumn.
💐 Why Choose Dutch Iris 'Valentine'?
- Deep purple, velvety blooms for a luxurious garden display
- Excellent cut flower with up to two weeks vase life
- Hardy and low-maintenance, perfect for gardens, cut flowers, and naturalizing
- Establishes well over time, blooming even better in second and third years
🌿 FAQs
❔ Is Dutch Iris 'Valentine' easy to grow?
Yes! It thrives in well-drained soil with full sun to semi-shade and is largely self-sufficient.
❔ Can I plant it in pots or containers?
Yes! Just ensure consistent watering as pots dry out faster than garden soil.
❔ How do I prevent pests and diseases?
- Use Neem-based sprays for aphids in spring.
- In humid conditions, apply a general-purpose rose spray to prevent fungal issues.
❔ When should I cut flowers for vases?
Pick flowers when buds have emerged but are not fully open. They will continue to bloom indoors, often with a second bud emerging later.
Ideal for Cool to Temperate zones (1-4) and states like ACT, NSW, VIC, TAS, SA, and the QLD Tablelands, Dutch Iris 'Valentine' adds timeless beauty and richness to any garden! 🌿