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Dwarf Crested Iris


Thrives in Zones 3 - 8


Dwarf Crested Iris enchants with its delicate violet-blue, fringed flowers, adding a touch of grace to shaded garden areas and woodland edges.

Ideal for small garden spaces

Drought-tolerant and resilient

Great for shady garden spots

Package of: Buy 1 Get 1 Free
7-10 Days

Dwarf Crested Iris - Iris cristata

The Dwarf Crested Iris is a delightfully small and compact iris native to wooded uplands in the Midwest and Southeast of the USA. Their native habitat consists of woodland ecosystems or rocky hills sides where they form clumps of bright green sword-shaped leaves with hues of lemon yellow and deep blue.

This low-growing perennial only reaching 6-9 in in height. Their flowers are a striking violet-blue in color with a purple-outlined, bright yellow splotch along the tongue the flower. They are prolific flowerers and will produce multiple blooms measuring 1.5 in across. In the right environment, these fast-growing plants and will quickly form robust colonies.

Plant Details - Dwarf Crested Iris

Family: Iridaceae

Hardiness Zones: 3 to 9

Light Requirement: Partial shade to full shade

Water Needs: Moderate

Height: 3 to 6 in

Spread: 6 to 12 in

Growth Rate: Moderate

Bloom Time: April to May

Flower Color: Pale blue, lilac, or lavender

Wildlife Value: Attractive to pollinators

The Dwarf Crested Iris gets its name from the crested falls (petal-like sepals) of the flower. The crest acts like a landing strip for the pollinators, directing them directly into the stamens and pistil. These flowers are particularly appealing for and easily fertilized by pollinators. These perennials are versatile plants and can be grown across a range of cultivation methodologies. Plant in a container garden for your patio, or in a border garden along a wall or foot path. This native perennial is a delightful addition to the garden.

Landscape Uses and Maintenance - Dwarf Crested Iris

They grow best in an area that provides light shading and will not thrive in full sun. They prefer soils of moist, rich humus and not like to have wet feet, so make sure to plant them in well-drained soil. They are deer resistant and do not have serious pest or disease problems, however they can be susceptible to slugs and snails, so keep your eyes peeled.

To keep them healthy and prepare them for the next year, remove spent flower stems and dead foliage in the autumn. They are rhizomatous and are easily propagated by division.

Noteworthy Characteristics

Attracts pollinators, grows well in dry to moist soils, showy flowers.

Whether you plant this adorably compact, yet showy iris among other perennials in your garden or within a naturalized woodland space, it is sure to be a favorite that you will enjoy watching bloom year after year. Shop for Dwarf Crested Iris plants online at TN Nursery. For 68 years, we have served the landscaping industry and homeowners with specimen plants.

This Is How Your Plants Will Look upon Delivery

Bare Root Plants
Bloom season icon

Bloom Season

Spring

Bloom/Foliage Color icon

Bloom/Foliage Color

Purple

Height at Maturity icon

Height at Maturity

Under 12"

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Care

Dwarf Crested Iris thrives in well-drained soil and requires regular watering to maintain soil moisture. Fertilize lightly in early spring and avoid over-watering. Remove spent blooms and cut back foliage after flowering to promote new growth.

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Plant Reproduction

Dwarf Crested Iris spread quickly and easily using underground stems called rhizomes.

Shipping date depends on the date displayed and chosen when you order from the product's page.

We do not accept returned plants. If you purchased an extended warranty we do accept claims, please navigate to the warranty page for instructions HERE

Dwarf Crested iris - TN Nursery
Dwarf Crested IrisBuy 1 Get 1 Free Sale price $5.99

Proper Sunlight
Happy Plants

Dwarf Crested Iris thrives in partial to full shade. It prefers dappled sunlight or filtered light, making it ideal for woodland gardens or shaded areas. Direct sunlight can be too harsh, causing stress and reducing its vibrant blooms.

Start your dream garden today

Our mission is to provide high-quality, sustainably grown plants that empower every gardener to make a lasting impact—one root at a time.

HASSLE FREE What are the benefits of Dwarf Crested Iris?
Attracts bees and butterflies
Perfect for fairy gardens
Unique and hard to find
BARE ROOT PLANTS ARE BETTER Growing is easier with Bare Root Plants TN Nursery offers a breathtaking variety of regionally adapted plants that thrive with minimal effort. Expert guidance enables choosing the right species for your soil and climate
Easier to Grow Bareroot dormant plants are more hardy because they adapt better to new environments,
Cost Effective With no heavy pots or soil, you'll save 50-60% on shipping costs, and can easily plant yourself
Better Growth Bare root plants are shipped without soil or pots, making them lightweight and easy to handle.
Eco-Friendly Bare root native plants are a sustainable choice that support biodiversity, use less water, and thrive with minimal maintenance.
Features
Why You Will Love Our Dwarf Crested Iris

Natural Woodland Beauty

This iris species is perfect for naturalizing in woodland gardens or shaded landscapes. It blends seamlessly with other native plants, creating a harmonious and natural garden setting.

Elegant Blooms

The Dwarf Crested Iris produces delicate, violet-blue flowers with fringed petals that add a touch of elegance to any garden. These stunning blooms make it a standout plant, enhancing the visual appeal of shaded areas.

Compact Growth

Ideal for small spaces, the Dwarf Crested Iris has a compact growth habit, reaching only 6-8 inches in height. Its petite size makes it perfect for borders, rock gardens, and container planting.


Diverse and Fragrant:

The fragrant flowers bloom in April and May, showcasing a palette of purple, lilac, lavender, blue, and pale blue. Rare colors like pink and white also appear, with additional hues including a white center and striking shades of yellow, orange, purple, and dark blue on the outer petals.

They’re blooming beautifully and adding a touch of elegance to my shaded garden areas. Excellent quality!
– Tyler Noah, Verified Buyer
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Customer Reviews

Based on 25 reviews
84%
(21)
12%
(3)
4%
(1)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
S
Sheelin Prinzinger
Dwarf Crested Iris

Roots came to health, not dried out. I can't wait until spring!

R
Rene King
I don’t know until they come up!

Idk yet. They haven’t come up but I got what I ordered on time.

J
Jessica Quist

Dwarf Crested Iris

J
Janet Dalton
My favorite

Eager to watch these grow. They are one of my favorites!

j
jack ackrell

waiting for it to germinate.......

Frequently asked questions

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Do you ship overseas?

Yes, we ship all over the world. Shipping costs will apply, and will be added at checkout. We run discounts and promotions all year, so stay tuned for exclusive deals.

How long will it take to get my orders?

It depends on where you are. Orders processed here will take 5-7 business days to arrive. Overseas deliveries can take anywhere from 7-16 days. Delivery details will be provided in your confirmation email.

Any question?

You can contact us through our contact page! We will be happy to assist you.