Iris Reticulata 'Pauline' - Dwarf Spring Iris
Overview
Transform your early spring garden with the enchanting Iris reticulata 'Pauline', a charming dwarf iris that brings vibrant colour when most plants are still dormant. This hardy bulbous perennial produces stunning violet-purple blooms with distinctive white markings and a delicate honey fragrance that signals winter's end.
Key Features
Botanical Name: Iris reticulata 'Pauline'
Common Names: Netted Iris, Dwarf Iris
Flower Colour: Deep violet-purple with white markings
Height: 10-15cm (4-6 inches)
Spread: 5-8cm (2-3 inches)
Flowering Period: February to March
Hardiness: Fully hardy (RHS H7)
Description
'Pauline' is a particularly striking variety of the beloved netted iris, renowned for its rich violet-purple petals adorned with crisp white markings and bright orange-yellow crests. Each flower measures approximately 6cm across and sits atop slender stems above narrow, four-sided leaves that emerge after flowering. The blooms possess a subtle honey scent that attracts early pollinators, making this variety both beautiful and beneficial for wildlife.
Growing Conditions
Aspect: Full sun to partial shade
Soil Type: Well-drained, neutral to alkaline soil
Soil Drainage: Excellent drainage essential
pH Preference: 6.5-7.5 (neutral to slightly alkaline)
Exposure: Sheltered to exposed positions
These adaptable bulbs thrive in most garden situations but perform best in sunny, well-drained locations. They're particularly suited to rock gardens, alpine beds, containers, and naturalised areas where the soil doesn't become waterlogged during summer dormancy.
Planting Guide
Planting Time: September to November
Planting Depth: 8-10cm (3-4 inches)
Spacing: 5-8cm (2-3 inches) apart
Bulb Size: Typically 6/7cm circumference
Plant bulbs in autumn for spring flowering, positioning them pointed end upwards in well-prepared soil. For container growing, use a gritty, free-draining compost and plant bulbs closer together for maximum impact. A layer of horticultural grit around the bulbs helps prevent waterlogging and deters slugs.
Care Instructions
During Growing Season
Water moderately during active growth in spring, allowing soil to dry between waterings. Apply a balanced liquid fertiliser monthly from emergence until leaves begin to yellow.
After Flowering
Allow foliage to die back naturally to replenish bulb reserves for next year's display. Avoid cutting back leaves until they've completely yellowed, typically by late spring.
Summer Dormancy
Ensure excellent drainage during summer months when bulbs are dormant. In heavy soils or wet climates, consider lifting bulbs after foliage dies back and storing in dry conditions until autumn replanting.
Garden Uses
Rock Gardens: Perfect scale for alpine and rock garden settings
Containers: Excellent for pots, window boxes, and seasonal displays
Naturalising: Creates beautiful drifts in grass or woodland edges
Cut Flowers: Delightful in small spring arrangements
Mixed Borders: Ideal for front-of-border early colour
Companion Plants
Pair 'Pauline' with other early spring bulbs such as snowdrops (Galanthus), crocuses, and cyclamen for extended seasonal interest. Summer-dormant perennials like hardy geraniums provide attractive foliage cover once the iris leaves have died back.
Maintenance Requirements
Minimal maintenance required once established. Key tasks include ensuring good drainage, allowing natural die-back, and occasional division every 3-4 years if clumps become congested.
Expected Performance
In optimal conditions, expect reliable flowering each spring with gradual naturalisation over time. Bulbs typically multiply slowly, forming small colonies that provide increasingly impressive displays as they mature.
Delivery Information
Supplied as premium quality bulbs, ready for immediate autumn planting. Each bulb is individually inspected to ensure healthy growing points and disease-free condition.
Buying Bulbs from Jacksons Nurseries
Bulbs are supplied either in pre-packaged retail packs or in some cases they are loosly picked and sent bagged.