Dalmatian Iris

Iris pallida, commonly called Dalmatian iris, is an accepted rhizomatous species native from northern Italy to the northwestern Balkans. The [RHS species profile](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/9326/iris-pallida/details) describes a semi-evergreen, clump-forming iris with blue-green leaves and scented lilac-blue flowers with yellow beards; [Kew accepts Iris pallida Lam.](https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:438939-1). ## Landscape and flowering Use it in a sunny flower border or cutting garden. The RHS gives a broad mature range of 0.5–1 m tall and 0.1–0.5 m wide, with flowers in early summer. [University of Wisconsin–Madison Extension](https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/articles/iris-pallida/) describes the species' foliage as solid bluish-green and recommends it as an accent near the front of a perennial border. ## Growing conditions Choose full sun and fertile, well-drained loam or sandy soil with neutral to slightly acidic pH. Wisconsin Extension notes that this species tolerates more shade than many bearded irises and lists USDA zones 4a–9b. It is somewhat drought tolerant once established; water newly divided rhizomes well. ## Maintenance After flowering, cut down old flower stems and remove dying foliage in autumn. Divide clumps every three to four years after flowering, or as needed. The RHS flags the plant as harmful if eaten, so wear gloves when handling.