Iris

Iris spp.

Perennial Rhizome
Deer Resistant

Pet & Human Safety

People: Toxic to people (low severity)Pets: Toxic to pets

Hazardous parts

roots and rhizomes, sap, seeds

Preparation

None known to make it safe. Wear gloves when dividing or handling rhizomes. If any part has been eaten, call your poison center.

Hazard type

Bearded iris: NC State rates it low toxicity; toxic principles irisin, iridin or irisine. Eating roots, sap or seeds can cause nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea and raised temperature., Siberian iris: NC State rates it low; eating the rhizome or root stock can cause stomach pain and vomiting., Skin: sap, seeds or rootstock can cause contact dermatitis (bearded: minor, lasting minutes); NC State advises gloves.

Hazard route

ingestion, skin, sap

How complete this information is

The safety information on this page is partial. Where a source covers a point, it is shown; where none does, the page says so.

Toxic to pets

ASPCA's page is for the whole genus (Iris species) and names pentacyclic terpenoids as toxic principles, highest in the rhizomes. Signs listed: salivation, drooling, vomiting, lethargy and diarrhea. Keep pets from digging or chewing rhizomes and call a vet or the ASPCA Poison Control line if one has.

PlotAndPetal cannot tell you whether a plant you found can be eaten. Only someone who can see the plant can identify it.

Poison control

If someone has collapsed, cannot be woken, is having a seizure or has trouble breathing, call 911 now. For any other possible poisoning, call Poison Help: 1-800-222-1222.

Emergency number source: U.S. federal law (47 U.S.C. § 251(e)(3)), read 2026-10-07.

Naturalist Lore

Historical Background & Breeding Lore

The history of this plant and its name, and how it was bred, where we have them.

Get the app: coming soon

Care

Hardiness zones: Siberian iris: USDA zones 3a-8b (NC State); in zones 8b and warmer, warm winters may hinder blooming.
Light: full sun is best for both; Siberian iris also takes part shade (shade can make it lay over and bloom less) and in the Southeast wants protection from hot afternoon sun
Water needs: moderate
Mature size: Bearded iris: 1-4 ft tall (flower stems rise up to 3 ft above the leaves), 1-2 ft wide. Siberian iris: 2-4 ft tall, 2.5-3 ft wide (NC State).
Family: Iridaceae (iris family)

Soil & Drainage

Pruning & Flush Rhythm

Feeding Schedule

How to prepare the soil, when and what to feed, and how and when to prune where that applies.

Get the app: coming soon