Iris cristata 'Powder Blue Giant' (Dwarf Crested Iris)

Iris cristata 'Powder Blue Giant' is a cultivar of dwarf crested iris, noted for its large, soft blue flowers and compact size. Dwarf crested iris is a small, perennial wildflower that grows through much of the eastern United States in moist, part shade areas like woodland edges. In mid spring, the plant produces relatively large flowers for its size, up to three inches across, in pastel shades of pale blues and purples; a stunning feat for its size, considering most plants grown to only 6-8" tall throughout the spring and summer seasons. With their thick, rhizomatic roots, Iris cristata can form dense colonies over time, which produce an impressive visual effect in the spring, and you'll easily be able to fill small beds or borders with a blanket of creamy blue flowers for the spring.

Dwarf crested iris grows best in consistently moist but well-drained soils, and especially in acidic sandy loams, such as those naturally found in pine barrens, on sandy stream banks, or in wooded slopes. 'Powder Blue Giant' excels in partial to full shade, so woodland plantings, shaded beds, or seasonal groundcover in less sunny spots might work best. Flowers have high aesthetic value for gardeners, but are also attractive to pollinators including hummingbirds and native bees, and in the late spring, seeds will attracts native birds too! Iris cristata is resistant to drought, as well as deer and rabbit damage, making it an ideal pick for a variety of gardens.