Clarence Bearded Iris

Iris germanica 'Clarence'

Nature Hills Nursery

Rare Fall Rebloom Bearded Iris with Icy White and Frosty Blue Blooms
Cold Hardy: Thrives in Zones 4-9
Grows 2-3 ft Tall, 1-2 ft Wide
Showy Blue, White Blooms From Late Spring to Late Fall
Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant

$32²⁴ $49⁶⁰

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Plant Size

Product variants

Understanding Our Container Sizes

At Nature Hills, our plants are sold in industry-standard nursery containers. You will notice we use the word "container" rather than "gallon." Container numbers follow a nursery trade size standard, not liquid volume. The number tells you the plant's size category and general maturity level. A larger container means a more established plant with a stronger root system.

Container Sizes

Quart

Plant age: 6 months to 1 year
Best for: Ground covers, perennials, ornamental grasses
What to expect: Our smallest and most affordable size. Well-suited for planting in multiples across a large area. Allow 1 to 2 seasons for full establishment.

#1 Container

Plant age: 1 to 2 years
Best for: Shrubs, perennials, smaller trees
What to expect: About the size of a large coffee can. A well-developed root system in a manageable size. Good value choice when you have time to let the plant grow into the space over a season or two.

#2 Container

Plant age: 2 to 3 years
Best for: Shrubs and trees where you want faster establishment
What to expect: A noticeable step up from a #1 in both plant size and root development. Good choice when you want visible presence without going to a larger size.

#3 Container

Plant age: 3 to 4 years
Best for: Most plants, most situations — flowering trees, shade trees, evergreen shrubs
What to expect: Our most popular size. Strong, developed root system. Plants in a #3 container make an immediate visual impact from day one. If you want a head start rather than waiting seasons for a plant to fill in, this is typically the right choice.

#5 Container and Larger

Plant age: 4 to 5+ years
Best for: Specimen plants, privacy screens, maximum instant impact
What to expect: Large, mature plants ready to make an immediate statement in your landscape. We also carry #7 and larger sizes for select varieties.

Why "Container" and Not "Gallon"?

Nursery container sizes follow an industry trade standard established for the nursery and horticulture industry. The number is a size designation, not a measurement of liquid volume. Actual soil volume varies by plant type, root mass, and growing medium. Using "container" is the accurate industry term. When you see #1, #2, or #3, think of it as the plant's size tier, not a gallon measurement.

Root Pouch Containers

Some Nature Hills plants arrive in a Root Pouch, a breathable fabric container made from 100% recycled materials. Root Pouches encourage denser root development through air pruning, which discourages root circling and promotes a stronger, more fibrous root ball at the time of planting.

Plants growing in Root Pouch fabric containers, showing the breathable woven fabric construction

There are two types. Knowing which one you have changes how you plant:

Degradable (brown or tan fabric): Plant the entire pouch directly in the ground. The fabric breaks down naturally in the soil over time.
Non-degradable (black or gray fabric): Remove the pouch before planting. Cut the bottom open with scissors, then peel the sides away. The fibrous root ball will hold its shape.

Not sure which type you have? Check the tag on your plant or contact us and we will confirm.

Full Root Pouch planting guide

Choosing the Right Size

Size	Plant Age	Best For
Quart	6 mo to 1 yr	Ground covers, perennials, grasses. Budget-friendly for mass plantings.
#1 Container	1 to 2 yrs	Shrubs, perennials, small trees. Value choice for patient gardeners.
#2 Container	2 to 3 yrs	Shrubs and trees where you want faster establishment.
#3 Container	3 to 4 yrs	Most plants. Immediate visual impact. Our most popular size.
#5 and larger	4+ yrs	Specimen plants, privacy screens, maximum instant impact.

Still not sure which size is right for your project? Our plant specialists are happy to help. Contact us and we will point you in the right direction.

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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	1-2 ft
Watering Needs	Moderate
Preferred Soil	Loamy, Peaty, Sandy
Growth Rate	Fast
Growth Habit	Upright
Blooms In	Spring, Fall
Flower Color	Blue, White
Foliage Color	Blue green, Green
Pet Safety	Toxic to pets
Suitable Space	Outdoors
Plant Name	Iris
Botanical Name	Iris germanica 'Clarence'
Species	germanica
Cultivar	Clarence
Class	Asparagales
Does Not Ship To	AK, HI, ID, MT, OR, PR, WA

The German Iris Clarence Bearded Iris (Iris germanica 'Clarence') is cool icy white and frosty blue! Known as "Bearded Iris" due to the fuzzy 'beard' that appears on each of the ruffled lower petals. Clarence is outstanding for its unusual color, design, and sturdy, vigorous growth habit. But Clarence is most recognized for its fall rebloom in the right conditions!

Long blooming in late spring and early summer, they bloom over a 2 - 3 week period! Backed by clumps of handsome green sword-like foliage, you will enjoy these vertical elements long after the flowers fade. But until then, enjoy the curious bees, butterflies, and occasional hummingbirds that stop by for a visit!

Bearded Iris grow wonderfully throughout USDA planting zones 4 to 9, and can reach up to 3 feet when in bloom, yet keep their slim 1-2 foot wide profile and are great for container gardening culture and small-space gardens! Ideal plants for the new, experienced, and busy gardener alike!

Planting and Application:

This Iris is calming and quiet in the romantic garden, Cottage garden, or mixed perennial border as groupings or long winding rows to maximize this dreamy and unusual color! The bright white and icy blue look fantastic in the Moon Garden and Clarence is ideal for use in cut flower gardens too!

Growing up to 3 feet when in bloom, the vertical foliage acts as green picket fencing along the back or mid-border of the garden. Favoring moist soil, but also being drought-tolerant once established, Clarence is as adaptable when planted near Rain garden edges, pools, ponds, and other water-heavy areas as they are in the Rock Garden or allowed to naturalize en masse throughout wide stretches of sunny landscape!

Icy White & Frosty Light Blue Bearded Blooms
Reblooming Iris
Upright Clumps of Sword-Like Green Foliage
Ethereal Cut Flowers & Pollinator Friendly
Great in Containers, Groupings & En Masse
Cool Hue For Cottage & Perennial Gardens, Moon Gardens & Mixed Plantings

#ProPlantTips for Care:

Clarence enjoys full sun in cooler climates, but afternoon or part sun in warmer growing zones. A well-drained soil location with regular moisture access is important for their first year in the ground, but once established, Bearded Iris are easy to grow and can be drought tolerant and pretty self-sufficient. All plants appreciate a 3-4 inch layer of arborist mulch over their roots, especially Iris rhizomes that prefer to only be partially in the ground. Iris are deer, rabbit and squirrel-resistant!

Information About Bare Root Iris

Bare root Iris are shipped as nice fresh-cut divisions with two to three fans of green tops. Keep in mind each Iris variety can have slightly different-sized roots.

When planting, make sure 1/3rd of the rhizome is exposed to sunlight with the roots buried underneath. Note, that it's best to cover the rhizome with a thin layer of mulch or leaves to protect them during the coldest months but make sure to uncover in the spring.

Full Sun & Afternoon Shade
Moderate Moisture Needs
Well-Drained Rich Soil
Deadhead After Flowers Fade & Trim Stems in Late Autumn
Deer, Rabbit & Squirrel Resistant

Add some cool blues to your summer garden by ordering a few Clarence German Iris from Nature Hills today! We will ship your quality, fall-planted Iris rhizomes at the proper planting time for your growing zone.

Where to Plant

Sunlight: Irises are sun-worshippers and require at least six hours of direct sun daily to perform well. If you plant them in partial shade, you will get less robust growth and significantly fewer blooms, as intense sunlight is what fuels the production of those rich colors and abundant flower stalks.
Soil: Excellent drainage is absolutely critical, as the fleshy rhizomes are prone to rot if they sit in soggy soil. If your soil is heavy clay, blend in some coarse grit or well-aged compost to lighten the structure; for sandy soil, add compost to help hold just enough moisture.

Watering Requirements

During the first year, keep the soil consistently moist to help the plant establish a strong root system. Once mature, 'Clarence' is quite drought-tolerant, but if your area experiences prolonged dry spells, a deep watering before and during the blooming period will ensure better flower size and overall plant health. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings, as inconsistent moisture and poor drainage are common sources of stress that can lead to smaller blooms.

Pruning Tips

Bearded Irises bloom on new wood, but your primary pruning task is deadheading the spent flower stalk immediately after the last bloom fades. Cut the entire stalk off at the base of the plant; this prevents the iris from wasting valuable energy on setting seed, directing that energy back into the rhizome instead for better future growth. You can wait until late fall or early winter to cut the foliage back to a 6 to 8-inch fan shape for winter clean-up.

Fertilizer Needs

Apply a low-nitrogen fertilizer, such as a 5-10-10 blend, twice a year: once in early spring as new growth starts and again immediately after the main bloom is finished. This supports both vigorous foliage and flower bud formation for the next season. What to avoid: Never use high-nitrogen lawn fertilizer, as it encourages soft, leafy growth that is highly susceptible to disease and, most dangerously, can cause the rhizome to rot.

Frequently Asked Questions

What USDA hardiness zones is the Clarence Bearded Iris suitable for?

The Clarence Bearded Iris thrives in USDA hardiness zones 4 through 9. This wide zone tolerance makes it suitable for most temperate climates across the United States. Plant in full sun with well-draining soil for best performance.

How often should I water my newly planted Clarence Bearded Iris?

Water newly planted Clarence Bearded Iris deeply twice weekly for the first month. This variety favors moist soil initially but becomes drought-tolerant once established in zones 4-9. Reduce watering frequency as roots develop, available at naturehills.com.

Is the Clarence Bearded Iris deer resistant?

Bearded iris are generally deer resistant due to their tough, sword-like foliage and bitter taste that deer typically avoid. The Clarence variety's sturdy growth habit in zones 4-9 makes it a reliable choice for gardens with deer pressure. Plant in sunny locations where deer browsing is a concern.

How deep should I plant the Clarence Bearded Iris rhizome?

Plant Clarence Bearded Iris rhizomes with the top just at or slightly above soil level. The rhizome should be barely covered, allowing the "shoulders" to remain exposed to sunlight. In zones 4-9, plant in well-draining soil and avoid burying too deep, which can cause rot.

Can the Clarence Bearded Iris tolerate clay soil or does it need well-draining soil?

Clarence Bearded Iris prefers well-draining soil and can struggle in heavy clay that stays waterlogged. While it tolerates drought once established in zones 4-9, soggy conditions can cause root rot. Amend clay soil with compost or plant in raised beds for best results with this reblooming variety available at naturehills.com.

How long does the Clarence Bearded Iris bloom period last?

The Clarence Bearded Iris blooms for 2-3 weeks in late spring and early summer. In optimal conditions, you may get a bonus fall rebloom period. Plant in full sun with well-draining soil to maximize both bloom periods.

Under $50	$9.99
$50 - $99.99	$14.99
$100 - $149.99	$16.99
$150 - $198.99	$24.99
$199+	FREE

Clarence Bearded Iris

Iris germanica 'Clarence'

Planting and Application:

#ProPlantTips for Care:

Information About Bare Root Iris

Where to Plant

Watering Requirements

Pruning Tips

Fertilizer Needs

Shipping Rates

Customer Reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

What USDA hardiness zones is the Clarence Bearded Iris suitable for?

How often should I water my newly planted Clarence Bearded Iris?

Is the Clarence Bearded Iris deer resistant?

How deep should I plant the Clarence Bearded Iris rhizome?

Can the Clarence Bearded Iris tolerate clay soil or does it need well-draining soil?

How long does the Clarence Bearded Iris bloom period last?

Choose options

Clarence Bearded Iris

Iris germanica 'Clarence'

Specifications

Description

Planting and Application:

#ProPlantTips for Care:

Information About Bare Root Iris

Planting & Care

Where to Plant

Watering Requirements

Pruning Tips

Fertilizer Needs

Delivery and Shipping

Shipping Rates

Find on Page

Customer Reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

What USDA hardiness zones is the Clarence Bearded Iris suitable for?

How often should I water my newly planted Clarence Bearded Iris?

Is the Clarence Bearded Iris deer resistant?

How deep should I plant the Clarence Bearded Iris rhizome?

Can the Clarence Bearded Iris tolerate clay soil or does it need well-draining soil?

How long does the Clarence Bearded Iris bloom period last?