A well-deserved name for this exquisite dwarf iris, Eye Catcher produces larger flowers than most Iris reticulata (dwarf iris) varieties. Its flowers are white with striated deep ink-blue star bursts on the standards and falls, decorated with yellow stripes amidst a mini galaxy of variable deep spots. The foliage of slender, grass like, gray-green leaves typically rises to the same level as the flower, but elongates after flowering, before disappearing by late spring as the plant goes dormant. Its mini stature and early bloom time make this an eye catching border and container plant. Each package contains 3 bulbs.
Botanical name: Iris reticulata 'Eye Catcher'
Form: Perennial
Hardiness Zone: 5-8
Flower Color: White, purple, yellow
Foliage type: Flat, linear, vein-less, upright, grass-like in appearance
Bloom time: March-April
Height: 2-4 inches
Spread: 3 inches
Light requirements: Full sun
Plant depth: 1 inch of soil over rhizome
See "Growing Tips" for more detailed instructions
Growing Tips and Instructions
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Native of Turkey and the Caucasian Mountains, Dwarf irises (Iris reticulata) are small, bulbous perennials with grass-like leaves and solitary, sometimes fragrant purple, yellow, or blue flowers that burst into bloom in late winter and early spring to create an effect reminiscent of butterflies hovering low to the ground. This sight brightens the aspect of late winter days!
The bulbs of iris reticulata are shaped like teardrops and have a netting-like tunic that covers the outside of the bulb. Correct planting depth is 4" deep and 3" apart, with the pointed end up.
Plant Iris reticulata bulbs in well drained soil. They flower best in full sun, but may also be grown in partial shade. Iris reticulata are both deer resistant and drought tolerant.
Though Iris reticulata bulbs may multiply over time, it takes several years for the bulblets to mature and begin flowering. Plant bulbs in the ground in the Fall, or in pots in the Spring and transplant into the ground in the Fall.
After the plants have finished blooming, the foliage will quickly fade away and the bulbs will remain dormant underground until the next spring. When iris reticulata bulbs are happy where they are growing, they will multiply and it's possible for them to become overcrowded. If this happens, the quality of the flowers may begin to suffer. To divide the bulbs, dig them up in late summer and split them apart. Put about half the number back in the same area and find other places to plant the rest.
Shipping
Sorry, we do not ship outside the U.S. or to Hawaii due to agricultural restrictions.
We guarantee safe arrival of healthy bulbs, that varieties will be true-to-name, and will grow if planted as instructed, subject to the limitations described in our Shipping and Returns Policy.
We begin shipping our bulbs, tubers, and perennials in mid-February through Spring. Upon arriving, your bulbs and most of your perennials may show signs of growth such as green leaves and sprouts - this is okay and transportation during this time should not harm the plants.
