Cut irises are Ontario’s 8th most important cut flower in terms of volume. These bulbous perennials are native to southern Europe and the Mediterranean region and are members of the Iridaceae family that also includes freesia.

While garden irises come in every color of the rainbow, cut irises are primarily available in variations of purple, blue, yellow and white.

Although traditionally considered a spring bloom, cut irises are available year round from Ontario growers. Irises are delicate flowers, and have one of the shortest cut flower vase lives of 3-5 days.

Irises suffer from dehydration and water stress so process immediately upon purchase. Remove any foliage that falls below the water line and trim stems with a sharp knife before placing in a vase. Keep in a cool location away from drafts and excessive heat to maximize longevity.

The iris is frequently used as a mass flower in floral designs and very often combined with freesia because of its family connection. Their height also makes them ideal for use as line flowers, or the flowers that help establish a design’s shape and size.

The iris is rich in historic meaning. In Greek, Iris means rainbow. The flower got its name from the Greek rainbow goddess Iris, who was a messenger on Mount Olympus. Iris would take messages from the eye of Heaven to earth by the arc of the rainbow as well as accompany the souls of the dead on their journeys.

The three leaves of the iris represent faith, wisdom, and valor. It has been a symbol of royalty and divine protection for centuries throughout the world. The Fleur-de-Lis, ~a stylized Iris motif~ has symbolized France since the 13th century.