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Bernice's Legacy Bearded Iris

Iris germanica 'Bernice's Legacy'

  • Rich Burgundy Ruffled Petals on Tall 32-Inch Stems for Dramatic Garden Impact
  • Cold Hardy: Thrives in Zones 3-9
  • Grows 2-3 ft Tall, 1 ft Wide
  • Showy Red Blooms in Late Spring
  • Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant
Sale price $3068 Regular price $4091
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Plant Size

Specifications

Plant specifications
Plant Characteristics Cold hardy, Low Maintenance, Flowering, Deer-resistant, Drought resistant, Slopes/Erosion Control, Attracts pollinators, Container Friendly, Non-invasive
Sunlight Full sun, Partial shade
Height 2-3 ft
Width 1 ft
Watering Needs Moderate
Preferred Soil Loamy, Peaty, Sandy
Growth Rate Fast
Growth Habit Upright
Blooms In Spring
Flower Color Red
Foliage Color Green
Pet Safety Toxic to pets
Suitable Space Outdoors
Plant Name Iris
Botanical Name Iris germanica 'Bernice's Legacy'
Species germanica
Cultivar Bernice
Class Asparagales
Does Not Ship To AK, HI, ID, MT, OR, PR, WA

Frequently Asked Questions

What USDA hardiness zones is Bernice's Legacy Bearded Iris suitable for?

  • Bernice's Legacy Bearded Iris is cold hardy in USDA zones 3-9. This wide hardiness range makes it suitable for most of the United States, from northern regions with harsh winters to warmer southern climates. Plant it in well-draining soil for best performance across all zones.

Does Bernice's Legacy Bearded Iris rebloom, and when?

  • Yes, Bernice's Legacy is a reblooming variety that flowers again in late summer to fall after its main spring display. This vigorous iris provides months of blooms in zones 3-9. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage the second flush, available at naturehills.com.

How tall does Bernice's Legacy Bearded Iris grow at maturity?

  • Bernice's Legacy Bearded Iris reaches 30-36 inches tall at maturity, with most plants settling around 32 inches. This substantial height makes it perfect for the back of perennial borders or as a dramatic focal point in mixed plantings.

What is the mature spread or planting distance for Bernice's Legacy Bearded Iris?

  • Bernice's Legacy Bearded Iris should be planted 18-24 inches apart to allow proper air circulation and room for the rhizomes to spread. These tall iris (30-36 inches) need adequate spacing to prevent overcrowding and disease. Plant in groups of 3-5 for best visual impact.

Does Bernice's Legacy Bearded Iris tolerate full sun or partial shade?

  • Bernice's Legacy Bearded Iris thrives in full sun conditions, requiring at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal blooming. This variety performs best with maximum sun exposure to produce its signature deep purple ruffled flowers twice per season. Plant in your sunniest garden spot for best results, available at naturehills.com.

What type of soil drainage does Bernice's Legacy Bearded Iris require?

  • Bernice's Legacy Bearded Iris requires well-draining soil and will not tolerate wet or waterlogged conditions. Like all bearded iris varieties, it performs best in sandy loam or amended clay soils that drain quickly after watering or rain. Plant the rhizome at soil level and avoid mulching directly over it to prevent rot.

How much water does Bernice's Legacy Bearded Iris need after establishment?

  • Once established, Bernice's Legacy Bearded Iris is drought tolerant and needs minimal watering. This hardy perennial thrives in zones 3-9 with infrequent deep watering during dry spells. Water at soil level to avoid wetting the foliage and rhizomes.

Is Bernice's Legacy Bearded Iris deer-resistant or rabbit-resistant?

  • Bernice's Legacy Bearded Iris is both deer and rabbit resistant, making it an excellent choice for gardens with browsing wildlife. Like most bearded iris varieties, the foliage and rhizomes contain compounds that deter these animals. Plant it in your perennial borders for reliable blooms without worrying about damage.

What fertilizer does Bernice's Legacy Bearded Iris need, and when?

  • Bearded iris need low-nitrogen fertilizer in early spring when new growth emerges. Apply a balanced 10-10-10 or bone meal around the rhizomes, avoiding high-nitrogen feeds that promote soft growth over blooms. For reblooming varieties like Bernice's Legacy, add a light feeding after the first flush finishes to support the fall display.

How is Bernice's Legacy Bearded Iris shipped, as bare rhizomes or potted?

  • Bearded iris are typically shipped as bare rhizomes during their dormant season from late summer through early fall. This allows the rhizomes to establish strong root systems before winter in zones 3-9. Plant your rhizomes immediately upon arrival for best results.