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dwarf crested iris

Iris cristata

The dwarf crested iris is a small, beautiful flower that blooms in spring. Its delicate purple petals are shaped like little fans, making it a lovely sight in gardens and forests.

Habitat: Forests

Appearance

The dwarf crested iris is a low-growing plant with vibrant blue-violet flowers, though sometimes white forms appear. Each delicate bloom has a distinctive yellow or white crest on its lower petals. Its sword-like, bright green leaves grow in neat, fan-shaped clumps.

KingdomPlantaePhylumTracheophytaClassLiliopsidaOrderAsparagalesFamilyIridaceaeGenusIris
dwarf crested iris
crested trait badgeflowering trait badgeshade_tolerant trait badgespring_blooming trait badge
dwarf crested iris

Category

Plants

Rarity

Common

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Snaps

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Interesting facts

Despite its small size, this iris can live for many, many years in one spot!

Its cheerful flowers pop up early, sometimes even before trees fully leaf out!

Look closely: the 'beard' on its petals guides tiny pollinators right to the nectar!

Some folks call it 'fairy flags' because its delicate blooms wave gently in the breeze!

Special abilities

Ability

Spreading Rhizomes

The dwarf crested iris has underground stems (rhizomes) that help it spread easily, forming beautiful colonies in woodlands.

Ability

Shade Lover

This iris can thrive in partial to full shade, allowing it to brighten forest floors where other flowers struggle.

Ability

Drought Defender

Its thick rhizomes store water, helping the dwarf crested iris survive periods when rain is scarce.

Measurements & details

Height
15-30 cm
Spread
15-45 cm
Flower Size
5-7 cm
Bloom Season
Spring
Edible
No
Toxicity
Mild
Lifecycle
Perennial
Pollination Method
Insect

Ecological connections

pollinates

honey bee

Apis mellifera

Gathers nectar and pollen from its vibrant blooms.

pollinates

common eastern bumblebee

Bombus impatiens

Visits flowers to collect nectar, aiding reproduction.

pollinates

eastern tiger swallowtail

Papilio glaucus

Drinks nectar from the colorful flowers.

Traits

Also known as

No aliases listed yet.

Collections

Safety

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Always look but don't touch flowers without asking an adult.

Frequently Asked Questions

How tall is dwarf crested iris?

15-30 cm

How wide does dwarf crested iris spread?

15-45 cm

How big are the flowers on dwarf crested iris?

5-7 cm

When does dwarf crested iris bloom?

Spring

Is dwarf crested iris edible?

No

Is dwarf crested iris toxic?

Mild

What is dwarf crested iris's lifecycle?

Perennial

How is dwarf crested iris pollinated?

Insect

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