Plant of the week

Think iris and think warm summer days and great, gorgeous flowers.

But not all irises bloom in summer; there are rockery versions which can bloom as early as January and February, bringing colour and form to dark days in the garden. Irises come in all sizes, from the small to the tall – which can be very tall. While the average can usually stand on their own stem, the giants need help in the form of a stake. Otherwise, they have a tendency to fall flat on their pretty faces.

Some beauties love to have their feet in damp ground, where, once established, they will quickly form vibrant clumps, to be lifted and separated every few years. The biggest threat to their annual show is the snail, which delights in steadfastly working its way up the sword-like leaves to get to grips with the succulent petals.