Iris sibirica ‘Silver Edge’, commonly known as ‘Silver Edge’ Siberian Iris, is a clump-forming perennial cherished for its striking floral display and robust growth habit. This cultivar reaches a height of approximately 28 inches (70 cm) and is notable for its rich sky-blue flowers, each petal delicately edged with a distinctive silver margin. The blossoms, measuring about 6 inches in diameter, feature intricate veining with yellow and white at the base of each fall, adding to their visual appeal.
Blooming in late spring to early summer, ‘Silver Edge’ offers a vibrant display that enhances garden aesthetics during this period. The flowers rise atop sturdy, well-branched stems, each supporting 5 to 7 buds, ensuring a prolonged blooming season. After the flowering phase, the plant maintains its ornamental value through its grass-like foliage—sturdy clumps of upright, blue-green, narrow, and fairly rigid, blade-shaped leaves that persist throughout the growing season.
This Siberian Iris is highly adaptable, thriving in a range of soil conditions, from moist to well-drained soils, and is suitable for full sun to partial shade exposures. Its deep-rooted system not only confers drought resistance but also makes it an excellent choice for stabilizing steep banks and preventing soil erosion. Moreover, ‘Silver Edge’ is valued for its minimal maintenance requirements and resistance to common pests and diseases, making it a reliable choice for both novice and experienced gardeners.
In recognition of its exceptional qualities, ‘Silver Edge’ has been awarded the Royal Horticultural Society’s Award of Garden Merit, underscoring its excellence for garden use. Its elegant flowers also make it a favored selection for cut flower arrangements, bringing a touch of refined beauty indoors. Incorporating Iris sibirica ‘Silver Edge’ into garden designs not only enhances visual interest with its vivid colors and unique silver-edged petals but also contributes to the structural integrity and ecological health of the landscape.
American Iris Society Registration Data
- Description – 56+ chrom. tetraploid. S. medium blue (RHS 89C); F. medium blue (89B) with distinct silver edge, yellow-white blaze; blue styles with turquoise midrib; ruffled. Orville Fay X T165/22: (White Swirl X Violet Flare)
- Hybridizer & Year of Introduction – Currier McEwen, 1974
- Classification – Siberian
- Bloom Period – Early through midseason
- Bloom Height – 28″