Earl of Essex Bearded Iris

Earl of Essex Bearded Iris (Iris germanica 'Earl of Essex')

Earl of Essex Bearded Iris is a vigorous reblooming tall bearded iris bearing classic plicata-patterned blooms: pure white petals softly ruffled and edged and veined in eggplant tones. Early season flowers are followed by a reliable late summer to early fall rebloom on upright, architectural fans.

Distinctive Features

Elegant white standards and falls with eggplant stippling and veining deliver crisp contrast on sturdy stems. Reblooming habit extends color beyond spring for a longer display.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun for best bud set and stem strength.
• Soil: Sharply drained, neutral to slightly alkaline soil; avoid heavy, waterlogged sites.
• Water: Moderate; water to establish and during bud set, then allow soil to dry between soakings.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 3 to 9.
• Mature Size: About 2 to 3 ft tall and 1 to 2 ft wide.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: White plicata blooms with eggplant veining create a striking seasonal accent.
• Mixed Borders: Pairs with peonies, salvias, and ornamental grasses.
• Cottage Gardens: Classic bearded iris form suits traditional plantings.
• Cut Flowers: Long, sturdy stems and showy blooms suit arrangements.
• Mass Plantings: Repeated clumps deliver cohesive color in spring and with rebloom.

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Water deeply during active growth and bud set; reduce afterward to prevent rot.
• Pruning: Remove spent stalks promptly; trim fans to 6 inches after fall cleanup.
• Fertilizing: Apply a light, low nitrogen feed in early spring and again after the main bloom to encourage rebloom.
• Mulching: Use a thin mulch only; keep rhizome tops exposed to sun and air.
• Notes: Divide clumps every 3 to 4 years in midsummer to maintain vigor and flowering.

Why Choose Earl of Essex Bearded Iris?

• Reblooming Performance: Early bloom with a dependable second flush.
• Refined Contrast: Pure white petals detailed with eggplant veining and stippling.
• Architectural Foliage: Sword-like fans add structure beyond bloom.
• Cut-Flower Ready: Fragrant, showy stems for indoor display.
• Easy to Grow: Thrives in sunny, well drained beds with modest inputs.

Plant rhizomes slightly exposed in full sun with sharp drainage, avoid overwatering, and divide periodically to keep clumps vigorous and floriferous.