Growing Non-GMO Awakening Embers Bearded Iris Flower Rhizomes

Plant Awakening Embers rhizomes at least six weeks before the first hard frost in a spot with full sun and well-draining soil. Full sun — at least six hours of direct sunlight daily — is essential for reliable blooming. Amend heavy soils with coarse sand and compost to improve drainage, and aim for a slightly acidic pH of around 6.8. Unlike true bulbs, bearded iris rhizomes must not be buried deeply. Dig a shallow trench about 4 inches deep, form a small mound of soil in the center, and set the rhizome on top with the roots spreading downward. The top of the rhizome should sit at or just above the soil surface. In very hot climates, light coverage of up to 1 inch is acceptable to prevent scorching. Space rhizomes 12-24 inches apart.

Water in at planting to settle the soil and encourage root development. After establishment, bearded irises are drought-tolerant and require little supplemental watering beyond natural rainfall except during extended dry periods. Apply a low-nitrogen fertilizer such as 5-10-10 in early spring and again after blooming. Remove spent flower stalks after blooming, and cut foliage back to about 6 inches in late fall to reduce overwintering iris borer populations. Divide clumps every 3-4 years when blooming begins to decline.

Growing Awakening Embers Bearded Iris in Containers

For containers, use a roomy pot — a minimum of 12 inches wide and deep — with excellent drainage. Fill the pot to 1 inch below the rim and plant as described above, keeping the rhizome top exposed. Water only when the top 2 inches of soil feel dry. Container-grown irises benefit from being overwintered in a garage or shed in colder zones to protect the rhizomes from repeated hard freezes.

Awakening Embers Bearded Iris in the Flower Garden

Awakening Embers is a tall bearded iris, reaching 30-36 inches, which places it naturally at the back of a mixed border where its height and dramatic color can be appreciated without overshadowing smaller plants in front. The deep cherry-purple blooms are richly velvety in texture, and the vivid orange beards provide a bold contrast that draws the eye directly to the flower's center. With up to 8 fragrant buds per stalk opening in succession, a single planting delivers weeks of color. Bees and butterflies are strongly attracted to bearded irises in late spring.

Harvesting Awakening Embers Bearded Iris

Awakening Embers makes a striking and long-lasting cut flower. Harvest when the first bud on the stalk is just beginning to open, using a clean, sharp knife or shears. Cut early in the morning, make a 45-degree angle cut, and immediately place the stems in lukewarm water. The remaining buds on the stalk will continue to open in the vase over several days, extending the display considerably.

About Awakening Embers Bearded Iris Garden Rhizomes

Awakening Embers was introduced by Schreiner's Gardens of Salem, Oregon, in 2019 — one of the most respected iris breeding and growing operations in the United States, with nearly a century of iris expertise. It received an Honorable Mention from the American Iris Society in 2021, the first step in the AIS award ladder for outstanding new introductions.

The name Awakening Embers was chosen through a naming contest, with the winning entry submitted by Pamela W. Montana. She described it as a seeming oxymoron that pays tribute to the eventual closure of the bloom season, like the glowing coals and embers of a glorious evening campfire. It is an apt description for a flower with such warmth and depth of color.

Bearded irises are not edible and are considered toxic to dogs, cats, and horses if ingested. Those with sensitive skin are advised to wear gloves when handling the rhizomes and foliage.

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Tips From Our Gardeners

The orange beard against the deep cherry-purple petals is what makes Awakening Embers really special — pair it with a pure white or pale yellow iris nearby, and the color contrast between varieties is just as striking as the contrast within a single bloom. A little planning around color combinations goes a long way with bearded iris.

- Jerry Sawyer, True Leaf Market Writer

Awakening Embers Bearded Iris Flower Rhizomes Per Package:

• 1 Rhizome
• 3 Rhizome Bag

Non-GMO Awakening Embers Bearded Iris Rhizomes are available for Fast Free Shipping on qualifying orders.