Iris Curio - Dwarf iris

The 'Curio Iris' is a variety of dwarf iris with particularly vibrant colouring, with its flowers of golden yellow speckled with dark red near the throat. Towards the end of April, it creates splendid little floral tufts. This radiant variety is perfect for brightening up slopes, rockeries, and raised borders.

The 'Curio Iris' belongs to the horticultural group of Miniature Dwarf Bearded Irises (MDB). The varieties in this group meet the following criteria: foliage shorter than the flower stem, curved or sickle-shaped, height less than 25 cm and flowers measuring 5 cm to 7.5 cm in diameter. It is a small, rhizomatous, deciduous perennial plant that, from spring onwards, has an upright clumping habit. It belongs to the Iridaceae family. Cultivars of small irises first appeared in the 1950s. Originally, the 'dwarf' category referred to the crossbreeding of an Iris pumila and a tall iris. This term now generally refers to the category of Standard Dwarf Bearded Irises (SDB).

The 'Curio Iris' will reach a height of 18 cm when in bloom. It will spread without any theoretical limit over time, with the rhizomes in the centre becoming bare in favour of the outer rhizomes. This small plant has a low and dense clumping habit. The foliage is deciduous in winter and consists of elongated, glaucous green leaves with parallel veins. It is a late-flowering dwarf variety, one of the last to bloom among dwarf irises. In March, floral stems appear, which will produce flowers that open from the top down. The colour of this plant is described precisely as follows: "Variegata with bright yellow petals and red sepals broadly edged in yellow. Lovely form. Vibrant colour."

Bred by Ben Hager (California, U.S.A), 1971.

Awards: Melrose Gardens 1972. Honorable Mention 1973. Caparne Prize 1976.

The dwarf irises are charming for adding colour and structure to the garden, especially in spring. They require a sunny location and well-drained soil to thrive. Avoid areas where water stagnates, as their rhizomes do not tolerate excessive moisture.

These little wonders are perfect for borders or the front of flower beds. Dwarf irises also integrate well into rockeries or gravel gardens, thanks to their drought tolerance.

Dwarf irises pair well with other plants that share their need for sun and well-drained soil. Small perennial plants like rock cress, creeping phlox, and sedums are good companions, as they complement irises in terms of texture and colour while covering the ground. Spring bulbs such as botanical tulips, spring crocuses, and grape hyacinths add vibrancy. Small grasses like blue fescue can provide a contrast in texture and structure the space around the irises.

Remember to divide dwarf irises every 4-5 years to maintain their vigour and multiply them, allowing you to enjoy their beauty for many years.