Flower Library
Iris
Iris · Iridaceae
Iris are short-lived in the vase but spectacular — the distinctive shape and deep blue and purple tones make them a styling element in many bouquets. An iris often opens in the vase and reveals its full beauty there.
- Season
- February – March – April – May – June
- Vase life
- 4–7 days
- Latin name
- Iris
- Colors
- Blue, Purple, White, Yellow, Bicolor
Iris ship with closed elongated buds. Within 1–2 days the bloom unfolds. Once open, it lasts 3–5 days.
Varieties include Dutch iris (classic blue-yellow), bearded iris (lush, very expressive) and Japanese iris (large, flat bloom forms).
Is Iris toxic to children and pets?
- Children
- Mildly irritating
- Cats
- Toxic
- Dogs
- Toxic
Toxic to cats and dogs. All parts contain irritant compounds, highest in the bulb and rhizome; ingestion can cause drooling, vomiting and diarrhoea. Keep out of reach of pets.
Typical symptoms: Increased drooling, vomiting and diarrhoea, especially after eating the bulb or rhizome.
In an emergency:call the German poison control centre in Bonn on +49 228 19240 (24/7) — for pets, contact an emergency vet directly. This information does not replace medical or veterinary advice.
Overview: toxic & non-toxic plants for cats, dogs and children
Care
- 01Cut stems at an angle, strip lower leaves.
- 02Change water daily — iris are sensitive to bacteria.
- 03Pluck wilted blooms — remaining buds will still open.
- 04Keep cool, out of direct sun.
Frequently asked
- Why does my iris only last 3 days?
- Normal for the open bloom. Because buds open in sequence, the bouquet itself lasts 5–7 days overall.
- Are irises toxic to cats and dogs?
- Yes, irises are toxic to cats and dogs. All parts contain irritant compounds, most concentrated in the bulb or rhizome. Eating flowers or leaves can cause drooling, vomiting and diarrhoea. Keep the bouquet out of reach of pets.
- When are irises in season as a cut flower?
- Irises are at their best from February to June, when we source them fresh from Veiling Rhein-Maas for our Düsseldorf range. It is a classic spring and early-summer flower.
- What does the iris flower symbolise?
- The iris symbolises hope, trust and wisdom. In many cultures it is seen as a messenger of good news and a sign of renewal — an expressive choice for congratulations and fresh starts.